This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crisp cucumbers with zesty flavors. It’s dressed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of vinegar—perfect for summer!
Making this salad is a breeze! I love how it can be tossed together in minutes. Plus, it’s a great side for any meal, or just for munching on all by itself. You’ll find it hard to stop at one bowl! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are great here as they have fewer seeds and a thin skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is thick or bitter.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory flavor, but you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos!
Rice Vinegar: It’s mild and sweet, perfect for this salad. You could substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but keep an eye on the flavor.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger gives a nice zing, but if you don’t have it, ground ginger will do in a pinch. For garlic, powdered garlic can substitute but use less.
Cilantro or Green Onions: Both add freshness, but if you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it. Green onions are a great alternative if you like the added crunch!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Salad?
To ensure your cucumbers are crunchy and fresh, salting them is a great trick. This step pulls out excess water, making them crispier. Here’s how to nail it:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly; this helps them soak up the flavors and stay crisp.
- Salt them lightly and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture without making them soggy.
- After letting them sit, drain any extra liquid and pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
This little technique makes a world of difference, allowing you to enjoy a salad that stays fresh and crunchy!”
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and allows you a little extra time to let the flavors meld together if you choose to chill it in the fridge. Perfect for a quick side dish any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. You can cut them into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
2. Draw Out Excess Water:
Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Toss them gently and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, keeping your salad crunchy.
3. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are sitting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar (if you’re using it), minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Everything:
After 10 minutes, drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers and pat them dry lightly if needed. Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to coat them evenly.
5. Add the Final Touches:
Garnish your salad with toasted sesame seeds and your choice of chopped cilantro or green onions for an added burst of flavor and color.
6. Serve:
This salad can be served immediately, or for deeper flavors, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Easy Asian Cucumber Salad!
Don’t forget to treat yourself and enjoy the crunchy, zesty goodness! 🥒
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English and Persian cucumbers are great for this salad due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, you can also use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if the skin is tough or bitter.
How Do I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste. You could also add a splash of sriracha or a few slices of fresh chili peppers for an extra kick!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the cucumbers may release more water over time, which could make the salad a bit soggier.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing and slice the cucumbers ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. Combine them 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
