This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is refreshing and full of bright flavors. Crunchy cucumbers meet zesty vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil for a tasty side dish!
It’s super quick to make! I love to whip it up when I need a light dish. Serve it chilled, and you’ll feel like you’re in a summer picnic, no matter the season! 🥒🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are the best choices for this salad—they’re crisp and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work too, but I recommend peeling them if they’re waxy.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead. It provides a similar umami flavor without gluten.
Sugar: The sugar is optional but balances the acidity. Try using honey or agave syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener.
Chili Flakes: These add a kick! If you don’t like spice, feel free to leave them out. You can also use a milder pepper like bell pepper if you want some color without the heat.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crunchy Cucumbers?
The key to crunchy cucumbers is to draw out excess moisture. This is why we sprinkle salt on the sliced cucumbers and let them sit. Here’s how to do it right:
- After slicing, sprinkle with salt and toss well.
- Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps to pull out water and keeps the salad crisp.
- After resting, drain and gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any extra liquid.
This simple technique makes a big difference, ensuring your salad stays fresh and crunchy!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad with Fresh Flavors
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes or a small fresh chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or scallions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing and mixing the ingredients, plus at least 20 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors blend. In total, you can have this refreshing dish ready in about 30-35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly—either into rounds or half-moons, depending on your style preference. The thinner you slice, the more flavorful and tender they will be!
2. Salting the Cucumbers:
Next, place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle them evenly with salt. Toss everything together so that the salt coats the cucumber slices. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture, making your salad crunchy!
3. Mix the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are sitting, grab a small bowl and whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes or fresh chili. This will create a tasty and tangy dressing!
4. Drain and Squeeze the Cucumbers:
After the cucumbers have rested for 15 minutes, drain any excess water that has collected in the bowl. Gently squeeze the cucumbers to eliminate as much liquid as you can; this helps maintain their crunchiness!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, pour that delicious dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss everything together gently until the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
It’s time to garnish! Sprinkle the salad with chopped cilantro or scallions and toasted sesame seeds for a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together. When it’s ready, serve it cold as a wonderfully refreshing side dish or appetizer!
Enjoy your crisp, light, and flavorful Easy Asian Cucumber Salad! Perfect for any occasion! 🌿🥒
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English or Persian?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers if that’s what you have on hand! Just peel them if they are waxy, and consider removing the seeds for a better texture in the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.
Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili in the dressing. Alternatively, add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
This salad is naturally vegan! All the ingredients used are plant-based, so feel free to enjoy it without any adjustments.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
