Garlic Cucumber Salad

This Garlic Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish, perfect for a light meal or as a side. The combination of garlic, vinegar, and sesame oil creates a vibrant flavor profile that enhances the crispness of the cucumbers.

Ingredients

• Cucumber - 2 medium
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Rice vinegar - 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Chili oil - 1 teaspoon (optional for heat)
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black sesame seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons and place them in a mixing bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil (if using), sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to combine, ensuring all slices are coated.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, sprinkle with black sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, tossing lightly to combine.

Nutrition

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 1 g
• Carbs: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, promoting hydration.
• Garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall health.

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