This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a bright and refreshing side dish. Crunchy cucumbers mix with a tangy dressing made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil, making it oh-so-tasty!
I love how quickly this salad comes together. It’s the perfect thing to whip up when you’re in a hurry, and it pairs well with just about anything. Plus, those cool cucumbers are a summer favorite! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are my favorite for this salad because they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers work great too! You can even use regular cucumbers, just peel them to reduce bitterness.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gluten-free option, try tamari. Coconut aminos are also a nice substitute; they add a slightly sweeter flavor.
Rice Vinegar: This gives the salad a nice tang. If you’re in a pinch, apple cider vinegar can work, but use slightly less as it has a stronger taste.
Sesame Oil: This adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you’re out, you can use olive oil, but the taste will change a bit. Toasted sesame oil has a richer flavor and is worth seeking out!
How Do You Get the Cucumbers Crunchy and Delicious?
To achieve the perfect crunch in your cucumbers, salting is key! This step draws out excess moisture, keeping your salad from getting soggy and helps enhance the flavor.
- Slice your cucumbers and sprinkle them with a little salt.
- Let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes. This draws out extra water.
- After resting, give them a gentle pat with paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing them with the dressing.
Trust me, this makes a big difference in texture and flavor, so don’t skip it! Enjoy your crispy and refreshing salad with any meal! 🍽️
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons, whichever you prefer. The thinner the slices, the better they soak up the dressing!
2. Remove Excess Water:
Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Toss them gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out extra moisture, giving you crunchier cucumbers. Afterward, pat the slices dry with paper towels.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined to create a flavorful dressing that will elevate your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
In a large serving bowl, combine the cucumber slices with the dressing. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated in that delicious mixture.
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top of your salad for added flavor and crunch!
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Enjoy:
Serve this refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad as a side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired meals or enjoy it as a light snack on its own. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Yes! While English and Persian cucumbers are preferred for their crunchy texture and mild flavor, you can also use regular cucumbers. Just be sure to peel them to reduce bitterness, and slice them thinly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release more water, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for the best crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and the dressing a few hours in advance, but wait to combine them until shortly before serving to keep the cucumbers crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
If you’re out of rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar as a substitute. Just note that apple cider vinegar is a bit more potent, so you may want to use slightly less to taste!
