Cucumbers with Black Sesame Seeds and Sweet Lime Vinegar

Bright, refreshing, sweet, and tangy, these cucumbers work just as well next to (or inside) a hearty winter sandwich as they do at a summer barbecue. Any leftover cucumbers will keep well for a few days in the refrigerator, but they will continue to give off liquid; just drain it off and add another squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds English (seedless) cucumbers, sliced about 1/8 inch thick

• Kosher salt

• 1/4 cup Sweet Lime Vinegar (recipe follows)

• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds, toasted

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 3 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves

Saladish by Ilene Rosen

Directions

1. Sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt, spread them out in a large colander, set it in a large bowl or the sink, and let drain for 30 minutes.

2. Press down on the cucumbers to release as much liquid as you can, then blot them very dry and transfer to a serving bowl. Add the lime vinegar and most of the sesame seeds, reserving some for garnish. Toss to combine and refrigerate until ready to serve. They can remain in the fridge for 2 days or longer.

3. When ready to serve, using a slotted spoon, transfer the cucumbers to a serving bowl; discard the liquid. Add the lime juice and tarragon, toss to combine, and use a fork to separate the cucumbers. Scatter the reserved sesame seeds over the top and serve. 

Sweet Lime Vinegar

Makes about 3/4 cup

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar

• 1/2 cup sugar

• Grated zest and juice of 1 large or 2 small limes

Directions

1. Bring the vinegar and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is slightly syrupy.

2. Remove from the heat and stir in the lime zest and half of the juice. Cool enough to taste, then check for limey-ness, adding more juice if necessary. Cool completely before using. The vinegar can be kept for 2 weeks or longer in the fridge.