Asian Cucumber Salad

A light, cool salad that goes well with grilled foods or rice.

introduction

This Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad is crisp, tangy, and very simple to make. It uses rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar to bring out the cucumber flavor. Try a spicy twist if you like heat by checking a similar recipe for a spicy cucumber salad: spicy Asian spiral cucumber salad.

why make this recipe

Make this salad when you want a quick, healthy side. It takes little time, needs few ingredients, and cools the palate on warm days. It also pairs well with bowls, sandwiches, or grilled meats. If you like other cucumber salads, you may enjoy the simple mix in this cucumber and feta side dish.

how to make Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad

Ingredients :

  • 2 cups sliced fresh cucumbers (approx. 2 medium cucumbers)
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted preferred)
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes

Directions :

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly into rounds.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
  3. Add sliced green onions and optional chili flakes to the dressing mixture; stir gently.
  4. Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.

Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad

how to serve Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad

Serve cold. Put it in a small bowl as a side for rice, noodles, or grilled meat. It also works as a light snack or on top of sandwiches for crunch.

how to store Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat within 2 to 3 days for best texture. The cucumbers will get softer over time.

tips to make Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad

  • Slice cucumbers thin for the best bite and quick flavor soak.
  • Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger nutty taste.
  • Taste the dressing and add a bit more sugar or soy if you prefer sweeter or saltier.
  • For a different mix, see this cucumber and feta salad for ideas: cucumber feta broccoli salad.

variation (if any)

  • Add sliced radish or thin carrot strips for color.
  • Use rice vinegar with a touch of lime juice for extra brightness.
  • Add cooked shrimp or tofu to make it a light main dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use seasoned rice vinegar?
A: You can, but reduce the sugar in the recipe if the vinegar is sweetened.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it up to a day ahead, but eat within 2–3 days for best crunch.

Q: What cucumbers work best?
A: English or Persian cucumbers work best. Regular cucumbers are fine; peel if the skin is thick.

Conclusion

For another take on Asian-style cucumber salads and more ideas, see this full recipe: Asian Cucumber Salad | Feasting At Home.

Print
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Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad


  • Author: kaoucheegmail-com
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A light, crisp salad that is perfect as a side for grilled foods or rice, with tangy flavors from rice vinegar and sesame oil.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups sliced fresh cucumbers (approx. 2 medium cucumbers)
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted preferred)
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly into rounds.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
  3. Add sliced green onions and optional chili flakes to the dressing mixture; stir gently.
  4. Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.

Notes

Serve cold as a side for rice, noodles, or grilled meat. Can be stored in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, refreshing salad, healthy side dish, quick recipes

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