Crunchy cucumber and chewy wood ear mushrooms are tossed in a tangy garlic-vinegar dressing. This fresh, vegetarian salad is low calorie, healthy, and a refreshing family appetizer.
Soak the dried wood ear mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes until rehydrated, then rinse and drain thoroughly.
Rinse cucumbers and slice them diagonally into thin half-moons; sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 5 minutes to draw out moisture.
Gently squeeze excess water from the cucumbers and pat dry with paper towels.
Bring a small pot of water to a boil over high heat, blanch the wood ear mushrooms for 1 minute, then drain and let cool completely.
In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, cooled wood ear mushrooms, minced garlic, sliced scallions, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then refrigerate for 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.