Sesame Cucumber Salad

The method

1. 01

   Peel the cucumbers. Cut them into quarters, lengthwise. (If the seeds are bitter, scrape out the seeds and discard.) Cut the cucumbers again, crosswise, into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

2. 02

   Place cucumbers into a serving bowl. Sprinkle with salt.

3. 03

   Toss with sesame oil, seasoned rice vinegar, basil (if using), and chili flakes.

4. 04

   Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if using.