Description
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a quick and refreshing side dish bursting with bright flavors of sesame, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of chili for a perfect balance of savory and spicy.
Ideal as a light appetizer or a crunchy side for your favorite Asian-inspired meals, this salad is easy to prepare and requires no cooking—making it a great choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Combine:
In a large bowl, toss cucumbers with the dressing until well coated.
4. Garnish:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and green onions over the salad.
5. Chill & Serve:
For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 15–20 minutes before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
Tips & Tricks
- Make it crunchy: Use Persian or English cucumbers for extra crispness.
- Add freshness: Toss in chopped fresh cilantro or mint for a different twist.
- Adjust heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
- Quick pickle: Let the salad sit longer in the fridge to develop a tangier, pickled flavor.
- Serve idea: Pair with grilled meats, tofu, or rice bowls for a balanced meal.
From Me to Your Readers
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a fantastic way to add a burst of freshness and flavor to your meal without much effort. It’s light, crisp, and perfect for hot days when you want something cooling but satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accompany a wide variety of dishes or stand alone as a refreshing snack.
Make this salad your go-to quick side dish for any Asian-inspired dinner or barbecue!
Leave a Comment