If you’re planning to serve the salad later, you can make this dish 2-3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavor becomes, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, add an extra drizzle of chili oil on top of the cucumbers to give the salad a pop of color and an added kick of heat. For presentation, you can stack the cucumber slices neatly on a plate for a restaurant-style look.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber salad is not only delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to serve it with:
- Rice: The cool crunch of the cucumbers complements the warmth of steamed rice.
- Noodles: Whether hot or cold, this salad adds a refreshing contrast to rich, savory noodle dishes.
- Dumplings: For a full Din Tai Fung experience, serve the cucumber salad alongside soup dumplings or pan-fried dumplings.
- BBQ: This salad is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, especially in the summer.
Tips for Perfect Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
- Uniform Slicing: Aim for consistent ½-inch slices. Uniformity ensures even marination and makes for a more polished presentation.
- Storage: If you’re making this salad in advance, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will remain crisp, and the flavors will continue to develop.
- Chili Oil: For the best flavor, try using a homemade chili oil. It adds an extra layer of depth and a bit of heat that takes the salad to the next level.
Nutritional Information
This salad is not only tasty, but it’s also low in calories, making it a great addition to any meal. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:
- Calories: 59 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 1378mg
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Iron: 1mg
The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is the perfect combination of crisp cucumbers and a flavorful dressing that is sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue or as a side for dumplings, this salad is always a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors at home that you’d find at Din Tai Fung. Make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and you’ll have a refreshing side dish ready to go at any time.
Don’t wait—grab some Persian or English cucumbers, and get ready to enjoy the crispest, most flavorful cucumber salad you’ve ever had!
