Looking for a fresh, crunchy, and super easy side dish? This Asian Cucumber Salad is just the thing. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor from sesame, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for pairing with your favorite Asian-inspired meals or enjoying as a healthy snack, this salad is quick to make and so satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious salad that brings a taste of the East to your table in minutes.
Ingredients List
For this salad, you’ll need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
How to Prepare Asian Cucumber Salad: Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1- Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. You can peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference.
Step 2- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3- Mix it all together: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss well to coat the cucumbers evenly.
Step 4- Add the finishing touch: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and add salt and pepper to taste.
Choosing the Right Cucumbers for Asian Cucumber Salad
When making this salad, I recommend using English or Persian cucumbers because they’re less watery and have fewer seeds. They also have thinner skins, so you can leave the peel on, which adds a nice crunch.
The Secret to a Flavorful Asian Dressing
The key to a great Asian cucumber salad is in the dressing. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey creates the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy. If you like things spicy, don’t forget to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Asian Cucumber Salad Variations: Spicy, Tangy, and More
One of the things I love most about this salad is how versatile it is. You can make it:
1- Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
2- Tangy: Use more rice vinegar if you like a sharper taste.
3- Crunchy: Toss in some toasted peanuts or sliced almonds for added texture.
Tips for Making Crisp and Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad
1- Use fresh cucumbers: The fresher the cucumbers, the better the salad will taste.
2- Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after making it. If it sits too long, the cucumbers can release water and become soggy.
3- Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing experience.
What to Serve with Asian Cucumber Salad
This cucumber salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, such as chicken, beef, or pork. I often serve it alongside Asian dishes like teriyaki chicken or fried rice. It’s also a refreshing side for summer barbecues.
Can You Make Asian Cucumber Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can. However, it’s best to keep the cucumbers and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Tossing them together at the last minute will ensure the cucumbers stay crisp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Asian Cucumber Salad
1- Overdressing the salad: Use just enough dressing to lightly coat the cucumbers. Too much dressing can make them soggy.
2- Not tasting the dressing: Always taste your dressing before pouring it over the cucumbers to ensure the balance of flavors is just right.
How to Store Leftover Asian Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad should last up to 2 days, but it’s best when eaten fresh.
Healthy Benefits of Asian Cucumber Salad
This salad is incredibly low in calories and packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are a great source of hydration and contain antioxidants that are good for your skin. The dressing, made with sesame oil and vinegar, adds healthy fats and promotes digestion.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
If you’re craving something light and refreshing, this Asian Cucumber Salad is a must-try. It’s simple, delicious, and takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or snacking on it by itself, this salad is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Try it today and let me know what you think.