MSG Free Ginger Cucumber Spears
Cool, crisp, and alive with bright flavor, these cucumber spears are the kind of snack or side dish that disappears fast. Fresh ginger and lemon juice do all the heavy lifting here, creating a zingy, aromatic coating that clings to every spear without a single processed ingredient in sight. A touch of turmeric adds a warm golden hue and earthy depth, while a pinch of cayenne gives you the option to dial up the heat just enough to keep things interesting. Because everything comes straight from whole, recognizable sources — fresh citrus, olive oil, sea salt — there's no need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden flavor enhancers sneaking into your bowl. The short marinating time at room temperature is key: it lets the ginger aroma really bloom and the seasoning soak in without turning the cucumbers soft. Finish with a scatter of fresh cilantro or parsley and you've got something that looks as good as it tastes. It's the kind of effortless, clean-eating recipe that earns a permanent spot in your warm-weather rotation.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 large english cucumbers
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Trim the ends from the cucumbers and cut each in half crosswise, then cut each half into 6–8 spears by halving lengthwise and cutting each half into thirds or quarters, depending on the cucumber's diameter.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the grated ginger, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and turmeric until combined.
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