Asian Cucumber Salad

This is such a simple, refreshing side dish or starter or snack.  It is tangy and crunchy and addicting, perfect for a hot late summer day.  Trader Joe's always sells a package of Japanese Cucumbers that are perfect, and we grow cucumbers in our garden too, which of course never make it to full size.  My kids love this - but they also love pickles, and it is in a similar taste family.  Serve it next time you bring sushi home or alongside grilled fish, soba noodles, or ramen.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• 4-5 Japanese Cucumbers (or very thin, small cucumbers - maybe fresh from the garden)
• 1 cup seasoned rice vinegar
• Handful fresh basil, julienned
• 1/2 t salt
• black sesame seeds

Method

Slice cucumbers thinly (I use a mandoline - so easy) and toss in bowl with remaining ingredients.  Chill in refrigerator for an hour, or up to several days.