Szechuan Spicy Cucumber Salad

Szechuan Spicy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, zesty dish that combines crunchy cucumbers with a bold, spicy dressing. This salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect side for any meal.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers - 2 medium (about 300g)
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Szechuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon
• Red chili flakes - 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Scallions - 2, chopped
• Cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
2. In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Szechuan peppercorns for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and crush lightly.
3. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed Szechuan peppercorns, red chili flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Mix well to create the dressing.
4. Add the sliced cucumbers to the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Let the salad marinate for about 10 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavors.
6. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped scallions and cilantro over the salad as a garnish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbs: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them great for weight management.
• Szechuan peppercorns have anti-inflammatory properties and may help enhance digestion.

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