This Asian cucumber salad is a zesty treat that’s super refreshing! With crunchy cucumbers, zippy sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s perfect for any meal.
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t resist snacking on it right out of the bowl! It’s light, easy to whip up, and pairs well with everything—especially grilled dishes. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English or Persian cucumbers for their crisp texture and thinner skin. If these aren’t available, regular cucumbers work too, just ensure you peel them if the skin is thick. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, zucchini can also be a fun substitute!
Rice Vinegar: This gives a light tangy flavor to the salad. If you don’t have rice vinegar, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute, but adjust the quantity as they can be stronger in taste.
Soy Sauce: Standard soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. You could also use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor feature.
Sugar: This is optional, but a touch of sugar can balance the acidity from the vinegar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, a bit of honey or a sugar substitute can do the trick. Just remember to adjust it to your liking!
Garlic and Ginger: These give the salad a beautiful depth of flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger are best, but you can use powdered versions as a last-minute solution if needed.
How Do I Keep My Cucumbers Extra Crisp?
The trick to keeping cucumbers crisp is to use salt wisely. Start by sprinkling sliced cucumbers with salt and letting them sit for about 15-20 minutes. Here’s how:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a bowl.
- Sprinkle salt over them and toss to evenly coat, allowing weight to draw out moisture.
- After resting, drain off the excess liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel.
This method ensures your salad stays crunchy and refreshing! Enjoy serving it as a bright side dish or a light lunch on its own!
Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers preferred), thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 minutes to chill. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes to create this refreshing dish that’s perfect for your next meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss to combine. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step is important as the salt helps draw out excess moisture, keeping your cucumbers nice and crisp!
2. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, grab a small bowl to prepare your dressing. Whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger (if you like). Keep whisking until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
3. Drain and Dry the Cucumbers:
Once your cucumbers have rested, you’ll notice some liquid has gathered. Drain this excess liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are fully coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Now it’s time to garnish! Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salad. If you’d like a bit of heat, toss in the sliced red chili as well.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing Asian cucumber salad as a delightful side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired meals or simply enjoy it as a light snack. It’s crisp, flavorful, and oh-so-refreshing!
Enjoy this light, crisp, and flavorful salad! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English or Persian cucumbers are recommended for their sweetness and crispiness, you can use regular cucumbers as well. Just peel them to avoid a bitter taste if the skin is thick.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you love a kick of heat, add more sliced red chili or even some red pepper flakes to the dressing. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to your spice preference!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve to maintain its crispness and freshness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days, as the cucumbers may become softer over time. Give it a quick toss before serving again to revive the flavors!
