What To Know
- This classic Chinese dish is made with thinly sliced cucumbers that are tossed in a tangy and spicy dressing, creating a vibrant and appetizing side dish.
- Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy appetizer or a refreshing accompaniment to your main meal, this Chinese cucumber recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
- Add a touch of honey or agave nectar to the dressing for a sweeter salad.
Chinese cucumber salad, known as 拍黄瓜 (pronounced “pai huang gua”), is a refreshing and flavorful summer salad that is both simple to make and packed with nutrients. This classic Chinese dish is made with thinly sliced cucumbers that are tossed in a tangy and spicy dressing, creating a vibrant and appetizing side dish. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy appetizer or a refreshing accompaniment to your main meal, this Chinese cucumber recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and trim the cucumbers. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil (if using).
3. Combine the Cucumber and Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and the dressing. Toss well to coat.
4. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, ground ginger, green onions, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss again to combine.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Serve the Chinese cucumber salad chilled as an appetizer or side dish.
Variations
- Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add more chili oil to the dressing for a spicier salad.
- Sweet Cucumber Salad: Add a touch of honey or agave nectar to the dressing for a sweeter salad.
- Garlic Cucumber Salad: Add more minced garlic to the salad for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: Toast some sesame seeds and sprinkle them over the salad for a nutty flavor.
- Peanut Cucumber Salad: Add some chopped peanuts to the salad for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Benefits of Chinese Cucumber Salad
Chinese cucumber salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. The dressing is made with rice vinegar, which is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Soy sauce provides umami flavor and is a good source of protein.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese cucumber salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including:
- Grilled Meat: Serve the salad as a refreshing side dish to grilled chicken, beef, or pork.
- Stir-Fried Dishes: Balance the bold flavors of stir-fried dishes with the light and tangy cucumber salad.
- Noodles: Add some crunch and freshness to noodle dishes like ramen or lo mein.
- Rice Bowls: Top rice bowls with Chinese cucumber salad for a healthy and flavorful addition.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the salad as a light and refreshing appetizer before a meal.
Tips for Making the Best Chinese Cucumber Salad
- Use Fresh Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Slice the Cucumbers Thinly: Thinly sliced cucumbers will absorb the dressing better and create a more delicate texture.
- Chill the Salad: Refrigerating the salad allows the flavors to meld and creates a more refreshing dish.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the dressing and adjust the ingredients to your liking. You may want to add more vinegar for tanginess or more sugar for sweetness.
Final Note
Chinese cucumber salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its simplicity and nutritional value make it a perfect addition to any summer meal. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing appetizer or a healthy side dish, this Chinese cucumber recipe is sure to impress.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, onions, or bell peppers to the salad.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the salad up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Q: How long will Chinese cucumber salad last?
A: Chinese cucumber salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
