This easy Asian cucumber salad is super refreshing and perfect for a light snack or side dish. Crisp cucumbers are tossed with a tangy dressing of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil!
I love how this salad takes just minutes to make. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! It’s a great way to cool down on a hot day, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are my favorite for this salad since they’re crisp and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work well too. Just make sure to peel them if the skin is tough.
Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a nice sweetness to the salad. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute, though it’s a bit tangier. You can also cut down a bit on the sugar if you use apple cider vinegar.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to control the saltiness of the dish. You can replace it with tamari for a gluten-free version or liquid aminos if you need a soy-free alternative.
Sesame Oil: This oil gives a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, but it does enhance the salad’s taste significantly. A light drizzle of olive oil can also work, but it’s not quite the same.
How Do I Perfectly Prepare the Cucumbers?
Getting the cucumbers just right is crucial for this salad. The salt draw out moisture and gives a better crunch! Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly. Aim for about 1/8” thick for the best texture.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and add the salt, tossing them gently to coat.
- Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps pull out excess water.
- Drain them and pat dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture before dressing. This step keeps the salad from being watery.
Following these steps will ensure your cucumbers are crisp and fresh, making your salad even more enjoyable!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Kirby), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (light or regular)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So, you can have it ready in just half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt over them and toss well to make sure they’re evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess water and keeps the salad crisp. Once the time is up, drain any excess water and pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Keep whisking until the sugar has completely dissolved. This sweet and tangy dressing is what makes the salad burst with flavor!
3. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the prepared cucumbers and toss everything together until the cucumbers are well-coated. Make sure each slice is covered with that delicious mixture.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the salad with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and crunch. If you’d like a bit of spice, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices to taste.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold as a side dish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack!
Enjoy this simple recipe that highlights crisp cucumbers with bright, tangy, savory Asian flavors. It’s perfect for a quick refreshment and easy to whip up!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English or Kirby cucumbers are preferred for their crisp texture, you can use regular cucumbers too. Just be sure to peel them if the skin is tough, as it can be bitter.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers will release moisture over time, making the salad less crunchy.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili. If you want a milder version, feel free to skip the spicy additions altogether.
What Can I Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute, though it may be a bit tangier. You can also use white wine vinegar but adjust the sugar in the dressing to balance the flavors.
