This refreshing Asian cucumber salad is light and zesty, perfect for any meal. Crunchy cucumbers mixed with tangy vinegar and flavorful sesame oil will cool you down on a warm day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are great for their crunch and minimal seeds. Persian cucumbers work well too. If those aren’t available, use regular ones but cut out excess seeds to avoid watery salad.
Rice Vinegar: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute. Just keep in mind it’s a little stronger, so start with less.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari for similar flavor without gluten.
Sesame Oil: This brings in a nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, you might try a little olive oil, but it won’t have the same taste. Toasted sesame oil enhances the flavor, so if you have both, use toasted for a richer taste.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic give a vibrant flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best for its strong aroma!
How Do You Remove Excess Water from Cucumbers?
To ensure your salad doesn’t turn soggy, it’s essential to remove excess water from the cucumbers. The salt helps draw out moisture and enhances the flavor.
- Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly.
- Place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt, tossing them gently.
- Let them rest for about 15 minutes. This process will help pull out the water effectively.
- Afterward, give the cucumbers a gentle squeeze to remove any remaining moisture before mixing with the dressing.
Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After mixing the ingredients, allow it to chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors blend nicely. So, in total, expect around 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers under cool water. Slice them thinly for the best texture. A mandoline slicer can help achieve even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. Once sliced, place the cucumber slices in a colander.
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt and toss them gently. Let them sit in the colander for about 15 minutes. This process will help draw out excess water, keeping your salad nice and crisp!
3. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix until well combined.
4. Squeeze Out Excess Water:
After 15 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any remaining water. Transfer them to a serving bowl, ready to mix with the dressing.
5. Combine It All:
Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—flavors starting to come together!
6. Add Final Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and red pepper flakes on top, adding a nice crunch and a pop of color.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your salad even more delicious.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad cold as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy the crisp texture and tangy flavors—perfect for any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English and Persian cucumbers are great choices due to their thin skins and minimal seeds. If those aren’t available, feel free to use regular cucumbers but consider scooping out the seeds to reduce moisture in the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste! You can also thinly slice fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more water as it sits, so give it a gentle toss before serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems watery, simply drain off excess liquid before enjoying it again.
