Savory Sichuan Cucumber Salad with Chili Oil Drizzle

Name: Savory Sichuan Cucumber Salad with Chili Oil Drizzle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 1 tablespoon salt; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3 tablespoons chili oil; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns; 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro

A Spicy and Refreshing Asian Salad

This vibrant Sichuan cucumber salad combines crisp cucumbers with a fragrant chili oil drizzle for a spicy and refreshing dish.

30 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large cucumbers

thinly sliced

1 tablespoon salt

for salting cucumbers

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sugar

For the Chili Oil Drizzle

3 tablespoons chili oil

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns

lightly crushed

For Garnishing

2 tablespoons roasted peanuts

crushed

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro

chopped

Preparation

Preparing the Cucumbers

Slice the cucumbers

Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a large bowl.

Salt the cucumbers

Sprinkle salt over sliced cucumbers and toss well.

Rest the cucumbers

Let them sit for 15 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Preparing the Dressing

Combine dressing ingredients

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

Dissolve sugar

Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Set dressing aside

Set aside until ready to use.

Preparation Tips

Important

Be sure to dry cucumbers thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad.

Pro Tip

Chill the cucumbers in the fridge for extra crunchiness.

Cooking Process

Make the Chili Oil Drizzle

In a saucepan over low heat, combine chili oil, sesame oil, minced garlic, and Szechuan peppercorns, warming gently for 2-3 minutes.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine drained cucumbers with prepared dressing, tossing gently.

Add the Drizzle

Drizzle the warmed chili oil mixture over the top of the tossed salad.

Plating & Serving