Chilled Cucumber and Wood Ear Mushroom Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• Cucumber: 2 large or 3 medium, peeled and sliced
• Wood ear mushrooms: 50g (dry weight), soaked and sliced
• Red bell peppers: 1, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves: A handful, chopped
• Rice vinegar: 3 tbsp
• Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp (crushed)
• Sesame seeds: 1 tbsp (optional, for topping)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (including soaking time for wood ear mushrooms)

Cooking Time:

• None - this is a cold salad

Difficulty Level:

[Level 2] - Moderate. Soaking and slicing are the main steps.

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the wood ear mushrooms in warm water for 20-30 minutes or until soft. Slice them into thin strips.
2. Slice the cucumber into rounds and red bell peppers into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, wood ear mushrooms, and red bell peppers.
4. Add rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, and crushed black pepper. Toss gently to mix well.
5. Add the chopped fresh basil leaves and toss again.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)

• Calories: Approx. 80-100 per serving (depending on the exact ingredients used)
• Fat: Approx. 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: Approx. 10-15g
• Protein: Approx. 2-3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Cold and refreshing, perfect for summer or as a side dish for any meal.
• The combination of cucumber and wood ear mushrooms provides a unique flavor and texture experience.
• High in vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables.

User Comments:

1. "This salad is so refreshing! The combination of cucumber and wood ear mushrooms is new to me but really works." - John Doe, New York.
2. "I loved the addition of fresh basil - it gives the salad a great flavor kick." - Jane Smith, Los Angeles.
3. "A great light dish for a hot summer day." - Michael Johnson, San Francisco.

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure to buy good quality wood ear mushrooms as they can vary in texture and flavor. Soak them well to ensure they are soft and tender.
• Adjust the vinegar and oil according to your taste preference for a more acidic or richer dressing.