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Close-up of spicy cucumber salad with garlic and chile in a ceramic bowl

Punchy Spicy Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Chile

A vibrant, family-style cucumber salad that packs a punch with fresh garlic and spicy chile. Ready in minutes, it's the perfect side dish for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 46 -6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers about 1.5 lbs total
  • 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 2-3 Thai bird's eye chiles thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds optional

Method
 

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
  2. Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced garlic and chiles to the bowl with the cucumbers.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves completely.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Add the sliced green onions and toss everything together until well combined.
  5. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Toss once more before serving.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.