A light, refreshing, and flavour-packed salad that’s perfect for lunchboxes or a quick meal. Crisp cucumber, al dente pasta, and a savoury-slightly-spicy dressing come together with fresh coriander and sesame for an easy Asian-inspired dish.

Ingredients (makes 1 lunch box):

For the salad:
1 medium cucumber
200g cooked pasta
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp black vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
½ tsp chilli (adjust to taste)
½ tsp sugar
Pinch of salt
A handful of fresh coriander, chopped

For the lunch box sides:
1 banana, sliced
A handful of strawberries
Hello Kitty cookies
A handful of popcorn

Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the cucumber
Smash the cucumber lightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2. Make the dressing
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, black vinegar, minced garlic, sesame seeds, chilli, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3. Toss the salad
Add the cucumber and cooked pasta to the dressing, stirring until evenly coated. Sprinkle in fresh coriander and mix gently.

Step 4. Pack the lunch box
Transfer the salad to a container and garnish with a few extra sesame seeds. Add banana, strawberries, Hello Kitty cookies, and popcorn for a fun, balanced lunch.

Bright, crunchy, and full of subtle heat and umami, perfect for a back-to-school lunch!

Watch Recipe Video