Cucumber Salad

We had the Greek variation as a side last night, and it was yummy! We'd probably add a few Kalamata olives, which would add to the nutritional info, but the flavor would be worth it...maybe some feta too... :)

This pic is of the sesame-miso variation:

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup)
Total: 20 Minutes
Ingredients:
1 1/2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
2 tablespoons white miso (soybean paste) or lower-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon hot water
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 teaspoons dark sesame oil
4 cups thinly sliced seeded cucumber 

Preparation:
SESAME-MISO VARIATION: Combine first 7 ingredients in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add cucumber; toss to coat. Nutritional Information: Calories: 60, Fat: 2.7g, Saturated fat: 0.2g, Monounsaturated fat: 0.6g, Polyunsaturated fat: 0.7g, Protein: 1.9g, Carbohydrate: 7.2g, Fiber: 1.6g, Cholesterol: 0.0mg, Iron: 3.8mg, Sodium: 182mg, Calcium: 12mg
SAUTÉED MISO VARIATION: Omit seeds, honey, and red pepper; decrease miso to 1 1/2 tablespoons. Combine miso, water, vinegar, 1 tablespoon sliced green onions, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cucumber to pan; sauté 4 minutes. Toss cucumber with juice mixture.
Yield: 6 servings.
CALORIES 38; FAT 2.4g (sat 0.3g); SODIUM 186mg
GREEK VARIATION: Omit first 7 ingredients; decrease cucumber to 2 cups. Combine 1 1/2 tablespoons minced red onion, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, 3/4 teaspoon chopped oregano, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Toss with cucumber, 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes, and 1/2 cup orange bell pepper strips. Yield: 4 servings. CALORIES 40; FAT 1.9g (sat 0.3g); SODIUM 86mg
SPICY PASTA VARIATION: Increase seeds to 3 tablespoons; add 1 cup thinly sliced green onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Combine seeds and remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Cut 1 (9-ounce) package fresh linguine into thirds; cook according to directions. Drain; rinse with cold water. Toss pasta with cucumber mixture. Yield: 6 servings. CALORIES 207; FAT 5.2g (sat 1.1g); SODIUM 294mg