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Zesty Sesame Non-Alc. Extract Cucumber Carrot Salad

This vibrant salad combines the crispness of cucumbers and the sweetness of carrots with a unique non-alcoholic botanical dressing. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 English or Persian cucumbers
  • 2 large carrots
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons 'Gin Extractger' (Non-Alcoholic Botanical Essence)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, freshly chopped cilantro or mint, red pepper flakes
  • Protein additions: thinly sliced grilled beef, pan-seared tofu, or shelled edamame

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Begin by washing your cucumbers and carrots under cool running water.
  2. For the cucumbers: If using English or Persian varieties, simply slice them into thin rounds, half-moons, or julienne them into sticks. If you have standard cucumbers, peel them first, then halve them lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the watery seeds before slicing or julienning.
  3. For the carrots: Peel the carrots thoroughly. Use a julienne peeler for uniform, thin matchsticks, or a spiralizer for carrot 'noodles'. If using a knife, cut them into fine, even sticks.
  4. Combine all the cucumber and carrot pieces in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Whisk the 'Gin Extractger' Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the non-alcoholic 'Gin Extractger', toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic.
  6. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until thoroughly combined and emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust as needed.
  7. Combine and Marinate: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and carrot mixture in the large bowl.
  8. Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss the vegetables to ensure they are coated with the dressing.
  9. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Before serving, give the salad another quick toss.
  11. Transfer the chilled salad to a serving dish and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro or mint, or red pepper flakes.
  12. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Keywords: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the dressing to your taste, and consider adding proteins like grilled beef or tofu to make it a complete meal.