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Sesame Cucumber Salad with Pickled Mustard Seeds

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves 4
This sesame cucumber salad recipe is the perfect side dish for summer cookouts! I list the pickled mustard seeds as optional, but I highly recommend including them. They really take this salad over the top.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon agave nectar or honey
  • 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced into rounds
  • ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onions
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped dill
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves
  • Pickled mustard seeds, optional (recipe below)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling, optional

Pickled Mustard Seeds, optional (makes extra)

Instructions

  • Make the pickled mustard seeds, if using. Combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a small pot over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stir in mustard seeds, reduce the heat, and cook over low heat for 30 minutes or until the mustard seeds are plump. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Make the salad. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, agave nectar, cucumber, onion, salt, sesame oil, and dill. Toss to coat and chill for 10 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl, leaving some of the excess water behind. Top with fresh mint, dollops of pickled mustard seeds, if using, and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Season to taste and serve.