Cucumbers with a BANG 

Cucumbers with a BANG is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that transforms ordinary cucumbers into a zesty, umami-packed delight. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a spicy-sweet dressing makes this recipe a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing appetizer on a warm day.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chile powder to taste

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to desired spice level)

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

• Crushed peanuts (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the skin if desired. Slice the cucumbers thinly into rounds or half-moons for uniformity.

2. Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey or agave syrup, and chili paste until well combined. Adjust the amount of chili paste to achieve your preferred level of spiciness.

3. Combine cucumbers and dressing: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss gently to combine.

4. Marinate: Cover the bowl and let the cucumbers marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the marinated cucumbers with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, red pepper flakes (if using), fresh cilantro leaves, and crushed peanuts (if using) for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 10g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

• Carbohydrates: 8g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 5g

• Sodium: 300mg

• Vitamin A: 4% of the Daily Value (DV)

• Vitamin C: 15% of the DV

• Calcium: 2% of the DV

• Iron: 4% of the DV