🥒 Garlic Cucumber Salad
📝 Description
This garlic cucumber salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold flavor. Crunchy cucumbers are tossed in a garlicky, tangy dressing with a hint of sweetness and a light kick of heat. It’s a quick side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a cooling contrast to spicy খাবার.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best)
- 3–4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp chili oil or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Cucumbers
- Wash and slice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces (rounds, sticks, or smashed chunks).
- If using larger cucumbers, you can remove seeds for a better texture.
- Lightly sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain.
2. Make the Dressing
In a bowl, combine garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
3. Toss
Add cucumbers to the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
4. Garnish & Chill
Sprinkle with chopped herbs and sesame seeds. Let it chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, মাছ, or BBQ
- Pair with rice or noodles
- Add crushed peanuts for extra crunch
💡 Tips
- Smash the cucumbers lightly with the side of a knife before cutting for better flavor absorption
- Adjust garlic based on how strong you like it
- Add a splash of lime juice for extra brightness