Oriental Tomato-Cucumber Salad
A fresh and tangy Oriental Tomato-Cucumber Salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, and a savory sesame-soy dressing, perfect for light lunches or side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core and dice tomatoes.
- Peel and halve the cucumber lengthwise. Scoop out seeds with a spoon and slice.
- Mix sesame oil, soy sauce, crushed red pepper, and sugar to make the dressing.
- Add cucumber, tomatoes, and sliced green onions to the dressing; toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, try using Persian cucumbers, which are thinner and have fewer seeds. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider adding a splash of Sriracha to the dressing. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the flavor profile. For a more substantial dish, you could add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas, turning this into a filling salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish, especially during summer barbecues. Serve it alongside dishes like Dolly'S Catfish Stew or as part of a larger spread featuring vegan recipes. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, do so gently in a microwave for a few seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the vegetables mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Tomato-Cucumber Salad contains roughly 88 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2078mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables a few hours in advance. However, it's best to combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. If made too early, the cucumbers may release water and dilute the dressing.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
If you don't have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil as a substitute. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile slightly. For a nutty flavor similar to sesame oil, consider adding a small amount of peanut oil or even a touch of nut butter to the dressing.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the salad milder, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more crushed red pepper or even some chopped fresh chili peppers. Adjust according to your taste preference for a balanced flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).