Ingredients
To create this delightful salad, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients, each chosen for their role in this symphony of flavors. Start with fresh cucumbers, preferably the seedless variety for the best texture. You’ll also need rice vinegar for that essential tang, soy sauce for umami depth, sesame oil for a nutty undertone, and a touch of sugar to balance the flavors. I often add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish, offering not only visual appeal but also an additional layer of flavor. These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, much like the meals Mama Lou used to prepare.
Instructions
Begin by washing and slicing the cucumbers thinly; I find that using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform slices that absorb the dressing beautifully. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour this dressing over the cucumbers, ensuring every slice is coated in the flavorful mix. Letting the salad sit for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions. This process is reminiscent of my afternoons spent in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where patience and love were always the secret ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International