Refreshing Crunch: Cucumber and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad Recipe

Cucumber wood ear salad

Introduction:

Dive into the world of refreshing salads with this Cucumber and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad. Bursting with crisp cucumbers and the unique texture of wood ear mushrooms, this salad is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Follow this simple recipe to create a light, healthy, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  1. Cucumbers: 2 large, thinly sliced
  2. Wood Ear Mushrooms: 1 cup, rehydrated and thinly sliced
  3. Red Bell Pepper: 1, thinly sliced
  4. Carrot: 1, julienned
  5. Fresh Cilantro: A handful, chopped
  6. Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons, toasted (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

  1. Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
  2. Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
  3. Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
  4. Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon
  5. Fresh Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
  6. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  7. Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare Wood Ear Mushrooms:

  • Soak dried wood ear mushrooms in warm water until rehydrated.
  • Thinly slice the rehydrated mushrooms.

2. Slice and Prep Vegetables:

  • Thinly slice cucumbers, red bell pepper, and julienned carrots.
  • Chop fresh cilantro.

3. Toast Sesame Seeds:

  • In a dry pan over medium heat, toast sesame seeds until golden brown. Set aside for garnish.

4. Create Dressing:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

5. Assemble the Salad:

  • In a large salad bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, wood ear mushrooms, red bell pepper, and julienned carrots.

6. Dress the Salad:

  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.

7. Garnish:

  • Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds over the salad.

8. Chill and Serve:

  • Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.

9. Enjoy the Crisp Delight:

  • Relish in the refreshing crunch and unique textures of this Cucumber and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad.
  • Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

Conclusion:

This Cucumber and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. With vibrant colors, varied textures, and a harmonious dressing, it’s a dish that brings joy to your palate and a touch of elegance to your table. Create this salad to elevate your dining experience with every crisp and flavorful bite.