Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with bold flavors, Asian cucumber salad is the ultimate side dish for any meal!
It’s quick to make, full of tangy, sweet, and savory goodness, and adds a refreshing crunch to your table.
Trust me—once you try this, you’ll want it with everything!
Delicious and Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian cucumber salad combines thinly sliced cucumbers with a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss in some sesame seeds and green onions for added texture and flavor, resulting in a dish that is refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a large bowl. If you’d like, sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Combine: Drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers if you salted them. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the slices evenly.
- Add Flavor: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salad. Toss again to mix all ingredients.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful salad that not only looks beautiful but tastes incredible. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile addition to any table.
The Crisp Appeal of Cucumbers
Cucumbers are celebrated for their refreshing crunch and versatility in various dishes. In this salad, they take center stage, offering a lightness that is perfect for warmer days. Thinly sliced, cucumbers absorb the tangy dressing beautifully, enhancing their natural flavor.
Crafting the Tangy Dressing
The dressing for this salad brings a delightful zing that complements the cucumbers perfectly.
A mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and just a hint of sugar creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
Adding minced garlic and grated ginger introduces an aromatic profile that elevates the dish.
The Role of Garnishes
Garnishing with toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Freshly sliced green onions contribute a burst of color and a mild onion taste that ties everything together.
These thoughtful touches not only enhance the taste but also make the salad visually appealing.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy cucumber salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled meats or spicy Asian dishes.
It can also serve as a refreshing snack on its own.
For a more filling option, consider pairing it with tofu or grilled chicken for protein.
Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad
Low in calories and high in water content, cucumbers are an excellent choice for hydration and weight management.
With a base of fresh vegetables, this salad is packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it both a delicious and health-conscious choice.
The inclusion of sesame seeds adds healthy fats that support overall well-being.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the best features of this cucumber salad is its adaptability.
Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes to enhance its texture and taste.
Experimenting with different dressings, such as adding chili oil for a spicy kick, can also personalize this vibrant dish to your liking.
FAQ
What ingredients go into Asian cucumber salad?
Asian cucumber salad typically includes thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sometimes a touch of sugar or chili flakes. Toppings like sesame seeds or green onions add extra flavor and texture.
How do you keep cucumbers from getting soggy in the salad?
To keep cucumbers crunchy, sprinkle them with salt after slicing and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water. Rinse and pat them dry before adding the dressing.
Can I make Asian cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after marinating for a couple of hours in the fridge. Just don’t make it more than a day ahead, as the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.