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Spicy Cool Cucumber Salad

This cucumber salad features crisp, thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a fiery chili paste and vinegar-based dressing. The dish has a crunchy texture with a bright, spicy flavor, finished with fragrant toasted sesame oil and garlic. It is served cold and visually vibrant, with a glossy, textured appearance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine asian
Servings 4
Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cucumbers thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons chili paste preferably Sriracha or similar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil for aroma and flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Begin by thinly slicing the cucumbers lengthwise, creating delicate, translucent ribbons that showcase their vibrant green color.
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  • Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl, ensuring they are spread out evenly for easy mixing later.
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  • In a small skillet, gently toast the sesame oil over medium heat just until fragrant, about 1 minute — watch for it to shimmer and smell nutty.
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  • In a small bowl, whisk together chili paste, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and minced garlic until the sugar and salt dissolve completely, creating a vibrant, slightly thick dressing.
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  • Pour the toasted sesame oil into the dressing mixture, whisking again to combine and release a fragrant aroma of toasted sesame.
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  • Drizzle the dressing over the sliced cucumbers, then toss gently with tongs or two spoons until all ribbons are coated evenly with the spicy, tangy sauce.
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  • Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cucumbers to slightly soften while maintaining crunch.
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  • Give the salad a final toss, then transfer it to a serving dish or platter. Garnish with a drizzle of extra sesame oil if desired.
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  • Serve immediately with a cool, spicy crunch that awakens your senses and refreshes your palate.
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Notes

For extra heat, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of cayenne. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili paste to suit your spice preference.