Why Make This Recipe
Asian Cucumber Salad is fresh, tasty, and easy to prepare. It makes a wonderful side dish for any meal. The crisp cucumbers paired with the tangy dressing provide a refreshing crunch that complements a variety of flavors. This salad is not only delicious but also healthy, as cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content. Plus, it can be made in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
How to Make Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 Persian or English cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili oil (or red pepper flakes, to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
Directions:
- Thinly slice the cucumbers on the diagonal. Toss them with salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Drain the cucumbers, rinse them with water, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili oil.
- Toss the drained cucumbers with the dressing until well coated.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and minced garlic, if using.
- Chill for 10 minutes before serving if desired.
How to Serve Asian Cucumber Salad
Serve this salad as a side dish or a light snack. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, rice dishes, or Asian-inspired meals. You can also enjoy it on its own as a refreshing treat on a hot day. For a nice presentation, place the salad in a serving bowl and sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top.
How to Store Asian Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within a day or two. If the cucumbers release too much liquid, you may want to drain it before serving again.
Tips to Make Asian Cucumber Salad
- For extra crunch, try adding thinly sliced bell peppers or carrots.
- Adjust the amount of chili oil or red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
- If you want a sweeter salad, increase the sugar to your taste.
Variation
You can add sliced scallions or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. Some people also like to include other vegetables like radishes for more color and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian or English cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they may have more seeds and a thicker skin. You might want to peel them.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, if you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this salad can be made gluten-free.
3. How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad is best eaten within 1-2 days, but it can last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly.
Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Thinly slice the cucumbers on the diagonal.
- Toss them with salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Drain the cucumbers, rinse them with water, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili oil.
- Toss the drained cucumbers with the dressing until well coated.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and minced garlic, if using.
- Chill for 10 minutes before serving if desired.