A vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, sharp red onion, and fresh herbs in a zesty dressing. Delivers a refreshing crunch.
# Components:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb English cucumbers, about 2 large or 3 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
02 - ½ medium red onion, very thinly sliced
03 - 1 small carrot, julienned
04 - ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
05 - Thinly sliced jicama or watermelon radish for extra crunch
→ Herbs
06 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or 1 tablespoon fresh mint, plus extra for garnish
→ Dressing
07 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or toasted sesame oil
09 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
10 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
11 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Toppings
12 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds
# Directions:
01 - Wash cucumbers and pat dry. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds with a spoon. Slice into 1/8-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
02 - Place cucumber slices in a colander over a bowl. Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and toss gently. Let drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
03 - Rinse cucumbers under cold water to remove surface salt. Shake off excess water and pat completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
04 - Whisk together rice vinegar, olive oil, sugar or honey, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until fully combined.
05 - Add drained cucumbers, red onion, chopped dill or mint, and any optional ingredients including carrot, cherry tomatoes, jicama, or radish to a large mixing bowl.
06 - Pour dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
07 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cucumbers to chill thoroughly. For optimal texture, serve within 2 hours of dressing.
08 - Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with additional fresh dill or mint and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds for added crunch and presentation.
