Sesame Cucumber Salad
A refreshing sesame cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, crunchy celery, and tender shrimp and scallops, all coated in a tangy vinegar dressing with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for light lunches, seafood lovers, or as a side dish at gatherings, offering a balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a small saucepan.
- Stir in vinegar and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
- Remove from heat and cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Sesame Cucumber Salad, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra nuttiness. If fresh cucumbers are not available, you can substitute with pickled cucumbers for a tangy twist. For a protein boost, try adding more cooked small shrimp or even some crabmeat from Crabmeat Crepes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a refreshing side dish, perfect for summer gatherings or alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Cooked Shrimp for a full seafood experience. For a light meal, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu. This salad also works well as an appetizer, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release water, so it's best to drain excess liquid before serving. To refresh the salad, simply toss it again before serving, as the flavors will meld beautifully after a short rest.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Cucumber Salad contains roughly 273 calories, with 5g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2075mg 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 the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the shrimp and scallops just before serving to maintain their freshness. The dressing can be made ahead and stored separately, then combined when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
If you don't have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so adjust the sugar if needed to achieve the desired balance of sweetness.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
While this salad can be prepared ahead, it's recommended to enjoy it fresh for the best texture. If meal prepping, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it with the other ingredients just before eating to keep the cucumbers crunchy.
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).