How to Make TikTok’s Viral Cucumber Salad

TikTok’s viral cucumber salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s easy to make. It’s known for its crunchy texture, tangy and savory dressing, and vibrant colors. Here’s how you can recreate it at home:

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for cucumbers)
• Optional: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:

• Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
• Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
• Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss to coat and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, making the cucumbers crunchier.

2. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Assemble the Salad:

• After the cucumbers have released some water, drain off the excess liquid and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.

4. Add Garnishes:

• Add the thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds to the salad. Toss everything together.
• If using, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or mint on top.

5. Chill and Serve:

• Let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, you can refrigerate it for up to an hour before serving.

Tips

• Variations: You can add other vegetables like thinly sliced radishes or carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Adjusting Spice: Increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your heat tolerance.
• Serving: This salad can be served as a side dish, snack, or even as a topping for grilled meats or fish.

Enjoy this light and tasty salad that has taken TikTok by storm!