Mayo Harusame Salad

This is a mayonnaise-based version of the traditional harusame salad.

2 bundles of bean thread noodles
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded & julienned
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 lb ham or imitation crab sticks (surimi), cut into strips
2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped - optional
Salt and pepper to taste

Rehydrate the bean thread noodles according to package directions; you want them to be clear and soft, but still chewy. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water. Drain well, cut into manageable lengths with kitchen shears, and add to a bowl.
Meanwhile, mix the cucumber sticks with a pinch of salt and set aside for about 5 minutes. Squeeze out the liquid and add the cucumber to the noodles.

Whisk the sugar and rice wine vinegar together; pour over the cucumber and noodles. Add the mayonnaise and mix well. Add the ham/imitation crab and egg (if using); mix well. Taste, and season with salt and pepper. Let chill for about 1 hour before serving.