This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish to brighten up any meal. Crisp cucumbers are tossed with a tasty dressing that includes soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil!
It’s so simple to make that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. I love serving it on a hot day – it’s like a cool breeze on a plate! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Japanese cucumbers are great for this salad because they’re less watery and have thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work too. Just peel them if you don’t enjoy the skin.
Rice Vinegar: This is perfect for a gentle, sweet acidity. If you need a substitute, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but adjust the amount if they’re stronger in flavor.
Sugar or Honey: This adds the necessary sweetness. I like using honey for a richer flavor, but if you’re vegan, sugar is a great alternative. You can also use maple syrup for a fun twist!
Sesame Oil: This gives a pleasant nutty flavor. If you’re allergic to nuts, you can skip this altogether or use a mild oil like vegetable or canola oil.
Fresh Ginger: It’s optional, but adds a nice zing! If fresh ginger isn’t handy, you can use a pinch of ground ginger instead.
How Do You Ensure the Cucumbers Are Perfectly Crisp?
To keep the cucumbers crisp and not watery, salting them is key. Here’s how:
- After slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit in a colander. This draws out excess moisture.
- Let them relax for about 15 minutes, then give them a little squeeze to get rid of any remaining liquid before adding dressings.
This small step makes a big difference in the texture of your salad, ensuring it stays crunchy and delightful!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers (preferably English or Japanese cucumbers)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare and chill. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes getting everything ready, and it’s best if you let it chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors combine beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
First, wash the cucumbers well to remove any dirt. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. The thinner they are, the better they’ll soak up the flavor!
2. Salt the Cucumber Slices:
After slicing, place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle the salt over them. Toss gently to coat the slices evenly. Let them sit for about 15 minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture and keeps the salad crisp.
3. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well-combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
After the 15 minutes are up, gently squeeze the cucumber slices to remove any remaining moisture, then transfer them to a mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Next, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salad. Toss lightly to combine all the ingredients. If you’d like some heat, you can add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili at this point!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a refreshingly cool dish. Serve it cold as a delightful side to any Asian-inspired meal.
Enjoy this crisp, tangy, and lightly sweet salad that’s perfect for hot days or whenever you crave something fresh and bright!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Yes! While English or Japanese cucumbers are preferred for their crunchiness and thinner skin, you can also use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if the skin is too thick or waxy.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh on the day it’s made.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but be sure to mix in the sesame seeds and green onions just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the salad! You can add shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even a handful of chopped herbs like cilantro or mint for extra flavor. For protein, try adding cooked shrimp or tofu!
