Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a cool and refreshing dish that you can whip up in no time. This salad is perfect for a hot day or as a side dish for any meal. It takes just a few minutes to prepare and requires minimal cooking. The crisp cucumbers are paired with a savory dressing that adds flavor and excitement to each bite. This dish not only tastes great but also adds a lovely touch to your dining table. You can enjoy it alone or with other dishes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy and fun.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy elements makes each bite exciting. It is also healthy, filled with fresh cucumbers that provide a crisp texture. The dressing is quick to mix, and you can adjust it to your taste. Plus, this salad is a great way to use up extra cucumbers. It’s a side dish that pairs well with many meals, adding freshness and brightness to your table.
How to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle. Continue slicing at an angle. Slices should look more oval than round. Thickness should be up to preference. Add to a bowl or container and sprinkle 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix that well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water. Drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10 seconds rinse before returning back to the bowl or container. Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic. Stir until well combined and serve. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
You can serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad chilled as a side dish or appetizer. It complements grilled meats, rice, or noodles wonderfully. Consider garnishing with extra sesame seeds or a sprinkle of sliced green onions for added flavor.
How to Store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days as cucumbers can lose their crispness over time.
Tips for the Best Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- For crunchier cucumbers, use fresh, firm Persian cucumbers.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your taste preference.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for color and texture.
Recipe Variations
You can customize this salad by adding more ingredients like sliced radishes or chopped cilantro. For a spicy kick, increase the amount of chili oil or add red pepper flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if they have a thick skin.
Is the sugar necessary?
The sugar balances the salty and savory flavors, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet salad.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but for the best texture, serve it fresh. If you need to make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
A cool and refreshing cucumber salad with a savory dressing, perfect as a side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2–1 tbsp sugar (to taste)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle, continuing to slice it at an angle to create oval shapes.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt; mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
- Drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick rinse before returning them to the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and optional garlic; stir until well combined.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For crunchier cucumbers, use fresh, firm Persian cucumbers. Adjust the sugar according to taste. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
