Cucumber Wasabi Dressing Kens from www.chefswarehouse.com
Introduction
If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, you've probably tasted wasabi before. This spicy paste is commonly served with sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. But did you know that you can also use wasabi to make a delicious salad dressing? In this recipe, we'll show you how to make a wasabi cucumber dressing that's perfect for adding a tangy kick to your salads.
Ingredients
To make this dressing, you'll need the following ingredients:
1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon of wasabi paste
2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
1 tablespoon of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of honey
1/4 cup of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cucumber
The cucumber is the star of this dressing. It adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle sweetness to the mix. Choose a large, firm cucumber with a smooth skin. Peel the cucumber and slice it into thin rounds. You can also use a mandoline or a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons.
Wasabi Paste
Wasabi paste is made from the wasabi plant, which is native to Japan. It has a pungent, spicy flavor that's similar to horseradish. You can find wasabi paste in most Asian grocery stores or online. Make sure to use a high-quality brand that's made from real wasabi and not just horseradish and food coloring.
Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar is a mild, slightly sweet vinegar that's commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a delicate flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients in the dressing. You can find rice vinegar in most grocery stores or online.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a savory, umami-rich sauce that's made from soybeans and wheat. It adds depth and complexity to the dressing. Use a high-quality, low-sodium soy sauce to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that balances out the spiciness of the wasabi. Use a high-quality, raw honey for the best flavor.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy fat that adds richness and creaminess to the dressing. Use a light, fruity olive oil that won't overpower the other flavors.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dressing. Use them to taste, but be careful not to add too much salt since soy sauce is already salty.
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to make the dressing. Here's how:
In a small bowl, whisk together the wasabi paste, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced cucumber to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and toss to coat.
Let the cucumber marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
When ready to serve, give the cucumber a quick stir and transfer to a serving bowl.
Nutrition
This wasabi cucumber dressing is not only delicious but also healthy. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional profile:
Calories: 125
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 245mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 1g
With only 125 calories per serving and plenty of healthy fats, this dressing is a great addition to any salad. The cucumber adds fiber and vitamins, while the wasabi and soy sauce provide a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Conclusion
Making your own salad dressing is a simple way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. This wasabi cucumber dressing is a unique and delicious option that's sure to impress your guests. Serve it with a simple green salad or use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken. With its tangy, spicy flavor and refreshing crunch, this dressing is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
