This Japanese inspired cool, crisp salad is as elegant and well balanced as it is simple.

Makes 4 servings, about 1 cup each

ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 15 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

2 medium cucumbers or 1 large English cucumber
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted (see Tip)

1. Peel cucumbers to leave alternating green stripes. Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise; scrape the seeds out with a spoon. Using a food processor or sharp knife, cut into very thin slices. Place in a double layer of paper towel and squeeze gently to remove any excess moisture.
2. Combine vinegar, sugar and salt in a medium bowl, stirring to dissolve. Add the cucumbers and sesame seeds; toss well to combine. Serve immediately.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 46 calories; 2 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 4 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 1 g fiber; 147 mg sodium.
Nutrition bonus: Iron (35% daily value).

TIP: Tip: To toast sesame seeds, heat a small dry skillet over low heat. Add sesame seeds and stir constantly until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and let cool.

I couldn't find sesame seeds, so I used sesame oil instead. It gave a bacon flavor similar to wilted lettuce. This recipe wasn't anything special, so I probably will not make it again. I'll stick to the old fashioned cucumber and onion with sugar and vinegar salad.

Anonymous, Piqua, OH

This salad is notoriously delicious, so long as you use the proper ingredients! A great palate cleanser between courses.

Anonymous, San Francisco, CA

I love this salad! It goes well with any Asian dish - particularly anything spicy as it cools and cleanses the palate. It is fabulous in and of itself, though. Love the toasted sesame topping. Using a fresh, seedless English cucumber is important as well (or one fresh from the garden that does not have large seeds).

Anonymous

This dish was just okay. I didn't hate it but I don't think I will make it again. I felt that the sesame seeds really gave the dish an odd texture.

Kathy, Odessa, DE

Fresh and simple!

Tami, Rocklin, CA

Very Good, fresh and delicate. A tasty, simple salad. I will do it again.

Maria, Ft. Lauderdale, FL