Description
A refreshing and flavorful cucumber salad in a jar that is quick to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 English cucumber, sliced thin
- 1/4 red onion, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 11/2 teaspoon Sriracha/hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos/soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/21/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/21/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/21/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/21/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/21/2 teaspoon furikake (optional)
- 1/2 avocado, diced
Instructions
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by adding the cucumbers to the jar, pushing them down a little so they are snug. You will feel that satisfying crunch as you press, and the color will pop! Layering keeps everything fresh, but do not pack them too tight or it might overflow later.
- Add Some Flavor: Sprinkle in your chosen seasonings, and give it a little shake. As the spices mingle, you will notice the aroma wafting up, promising a tasty experience. Spread the seasonings evenly; uneven seasoning can lead to some bites being bland.
- Mix Up the Dressing: In a separate cup, whisk the dressing until it is well blended. You will see it come together nicely, and the smell will get you excited. This step is key for evenly coated salad, so whisking thoroughly is crucial to avoid a clumpy mix.
- Pour the Dressing: Slowly drizzle the dressing over the layered ingredients. Watch as it seeps down, coating everything perfectly! This helps the flavors meld together, but be careful – pouring too fast might leave a mess at the top.
- Seal and Shake: Put the lid on the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake. You will feel the ingredients bouncing off each other, mixing those flavors beautifully. Shaking too vigorously could lead to spillage, so take it easy!
- Chill and Enjoy: Let the jar sit in the fridge for a bit to allow the flavors to develop. As it chills, the refreshing scents will fill your kitchen, and you will be ready for a cool treat. Just do not leave it too long or it might get soggy!
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container and consume within 24 hours for best freshness, as it tends to get soggy after that.
- Expert Tips: Slice the cucumber thinly using a mandoline for optimal results.
- If you want to avoid a watery salad, salting the cucumbers ahead of time helps draw out excess moisture.
- For consistent thin slices that enhance texture, using a mandoline is effective and saves time.
- If you are planning to store the salad for later, consider omitting red onions and using green onions instead.
- When ready to serve, shaking the jar ensures all flavors are well distributed for an enjoyable taste.
- If you notice the flavors are not blending well, try letting the salad rest briefly before shaking for better mingling.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled chicken for a protein-rich meal.
- Serve as a side with teriyaki or curries.
- Use as a topping for rice bowls or sushi.
- Recipe Variations: Add grilled chicken or smoked salmon for extra protein.
- Incorporate shredded carrots for added crunch.
- Replace Sriracha with another hot sauce for different heat levels.
- Ingredient Notes: Look for firm English cucumbers with smooth skin; if unavailable, Persian cucumbers are a good substitute.
- Choose red onions that feel heavy for their size; green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
- For mayonnaise, use the creamy kind that spreads easily; Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter option.
- Cream cheese gives a creamy texture; a block works best, or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- If coconut aminos are unavailable, regular soy sauce works just as well; gluten-free options include tamari.
- Rice vinegar adds great tanginess; if needed, apple cider vinegar can substitute while adjusting the amount to taste.
- Use toasted sesame oil for deeper flavor, or any neutral oil in a pinch.
- For a crunchy and nutty texture, sprinkle sesame seeds, and consider using toasted seeds for extra flavor.
- Furikake adds a unique umami twist, but can be substituted with crushed nori or omitted.
- Avocado should yield slightly to pressure for ripeness; it can be skipped if not preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 jar
- Calories: 322
- Sugar: 1.3g
- Sodium: not specified
- Fat: 21.4g
- Saturated Fat: 5.4g
- Unsaturated Fat: not specified
- Trans Fat: not specified
- Carbohydrates: 24.8g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Protein: 2.3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg