Shake Shake Garlic Cucumbers

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

02 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

→ Dressing

03 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce

04 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

05 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

06 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

07 - 1 teaspoon sugar

08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Garnish

09 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

10 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Place the sliced cucumbers and minced garlic into a large, sealable jar or container.

02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili flakes, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.

03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumbers in the jar.

04 - Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for 30–60 seconds, ensuring the cucumbers are well coated.

05 - Let stand for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

06 - Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if using, and serve immediately. For extra chill, refrigerate before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -

It takes less time than waiting for water to boil, and you can eat it right away or let it sit while you finish everything else.
The shaking part is oddly satisfying, especially after a long day when you need something physical and quick.
It works as a side, a snack, or that crunchy thing you crave when everything else on the table is soft and warm.

02 -

If your cucumbers are watery or seedy, scoop out the seeds with a spoon before slicing or the dressing will get diluted.
Don't skip the sugar, it sounds like a weird addition but it's what makes the soy sauce and vinegar play nice together instead of fighting.
Shake longer than you think you need to, thirty seconds isn't enough to coat everything evenly and you'll end up with bland bites.

03 -