cucumber salad with sesame dressing

I always have half of a cucumber left in my refrigerator, and this is my favorite way to use it. It is easy and refreshing side dish, or Banchan.

makes 2-4 servings

ingredients

1/2 English cucumber

1 Tbsp sesame seeds

1 Tbst+ 1 tsp seasoned vinegar (available in asian market)

3 tsp light soy sauce

1 Tbsp sesame oil

1/2 tsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper powder or any red pepper flakes you like)

1/4 t salt (or more )

In mortar and pestle, grind sesame seeds, the add vinegar, light soy sauce, sesame oil, gochugaru (red pepper flakes) and a pinch of salt. Grind and mix well together to make salad dressing.

Cut the cucumber half lengthwise, scrape out the seeds inside. Slice the cucumber like above. (eye brow shapes) Add the cucumber slices to the dressing, toss to mix. Season with more salt if needed. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes before eating. (if you like pickle-ish taste, leave it in the refrigerator for a hour before serving.)