Keto Asian Cucumber Salad

Keto Asian Cucumber Salad

A refreshing, no-cook, 10-minute low-carb side dish

KEY INFO:

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian (Vegan option available)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Alternative: Mandoline slicer for uniform cucumber slices

INGREDIENTS:

For the Salad:

• 4 medium cucumbers (about 4 cups when sliced) (English or Persian preferred)
• 2 medium avocados, diced (optional)
• 3 green onions, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon monk fruit sweetener
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)

METHOD:

1. Slice cucumbers thinly (about 1/8 inch thick)
   Pro tip: If using regular cucumbers, remove seeds first
2. Optional but recommended: Sprinkle sliced cucumbers with 1/2 teaspoon salt, let sit for 5 minutes, then rinse and pat dry
   This ensures crispy cucumbers that won’t get watery
3. Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl until well combined

4. Toss cucumbers with dressing
   Important: Start with 3/4 of the dressing, add more if needed
5. Fold in diced avocado (if using)
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Use English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and better crunch
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
• Don’t skip the salt-and-drain step if you plan to store leftovers
• Keep dressing separate if making ahead

STORAGE:

• Best eaten within 2 hours of preparation
• Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
• If storing, keep dressing separate

SCALING:

• Recipe easily doubles or halves
• Maintain the same dressing-to-cucumber ratio

VARIATIONS:

• Add protein: shredded chicken or tofu
• Spice it up: extra chili flakes or sriracha
• Make it creamy: add Japanese mayo
• Add crunch: chopped peanuts or water chestnuts

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Over-dressing the salad
• Skipping the salt step for longer storage
• Using regular cucumbers without deseeding
• Adding avocado too early if planning to store

Per Serving (without avocado):

• Calories: 85
• Net Carbs: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g

Enjoy this refreshing keto-friendly salad that perfectly balances crunch, tang, and Asian-inspired flavors!