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Overhead view of sunomono-style cucumber salad in a white bowl with sesame seeds

Quick Sunomono-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame and a Sweet-Tart Dressing

This quick sunomono-style cucumber salad is crisp, refreshing, and tossed in a sweet-tart dressing with sesame. Ready in 15 minutes, it's the perfect cozy side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3 Persian cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

  1. Slice the cucumbers thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline works best, but a sharp knife is fine.
  2. Toss the cucumber slices with 1 teaspoon salt in a colander. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
  4. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumber slices to remove excess liquid. Do not rinse.
  5. Transfer the cucumbers to a serving bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for more flavor.