This easy Asian cucumber salad is a crisp and cool delight! Made with fresh cucumbers, tangy rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil, it’s perfect for any meal.
Every bite is like a fresh breeze on a sunny day! I love serving it alongside grilled meats. It’s quick to whip up, and trust me, you’ll want to make it often!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For this salad, English or Persian cucumbers are great because they’re less bitter and have fewer seeds. If these aren’t available, you can use regular cucumbers but be sure to peel them for a better texture.
Rice vinegar: This gives the salad a nice tang. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will be slightly different. I find rice vinegar is lighter and more refreshing!
Soy sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt intake. Alternatively, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option. Just remember, it adds a savory depth to the dish.
Sugar or honey: This balances out the acidity. If you’re avoiding sugar, feel free to use a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup, just adjust the amount to taste!
Chili flakes or fresh chili: Customize the heat level based on your preference! I love using fresh chilies for a slight crunch, but use what you enjoy most!
How Do You Get the Cucumbers Crisp?
For crispy cucumbers, salting them ahead of time is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle a little salt over them and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- After 10 minutes, rinse them quickly under cold water and drain well.
- This step ensures your salad stays crunchy and doesn’t get watery!
When combined with the tangy dressing, the crunchy cucumbers make a perfect base for this refreshing salad!
Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes or 1 small fresh chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy to make! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then let it chill for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator. Overall, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them thinly into rounds. If you want them super crunchy, sprinkle some salt over the slices and let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, rinse them under cold water and drain well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar or honey. Stir the mixture until the sugar or honey is completely dissolved. If you like a bit of spice, mix in the chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili based on how spicy you want your salad!
3. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained cucumber slices and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to coat all the cucumber rounds evenly with the flavorful dressing. Then, fold in the sliced green onions and sprinkle in the toasted sesame seeds.
4. Season and Chill:
Taste your salad and adjust the salt or soy sauce to your liking. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad one last toss and then serve it cold. It’s a fantastic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a refreshing treat!
Enjoy the crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of this delightful Asian cucumber salad!
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 be sure to peel them first, as they can be more bitter and have more seeds compared to English or Persian cucumbers.
How Can I Make This Salad Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can either reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether. Alternatively, replace them with a splash of lime juice for some acidity without the heat!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will actually deepen as it chills!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose a bit of their crispness over time, but the salad will still be delicious!
