This Asian Cucumber Salad is an explosion of fresh, crisp flavors. The tangy rice vinegar dressing perfectly complements the cool cucumber slices, while sesame oil and soy sauce bring a delicious depth of umami. The addition of red pepper flakes gives just the right amount of heat, balanced with a touch of honey for sweetness.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a light appetizer, a side dish, or even a snack. The fresh cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds provide a burst of color and texture, making this salad as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare—ideal for busy days or gatherings with friends.
Full Recipe:
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2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon honey
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
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1/4 cup green onions, sliced
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Salt, to taste
Directions:
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Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a medium bowl.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to combine.
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Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
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Season with a pinch of salt and stir well.
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Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to marinate before serving.
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Enjoy your refreshing Asian cucumber salad!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 45 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Asian Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing, Flavorful Delight
Asian Cucumber Salad is a light and refreshing dish that showcases the crispy crunch of cucumbers paired with a bold, tangy dressing. This salad, which takes only five minutes to prepare, is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. While simple in its ingredient list, the combination of fresh cucumbers, sesame oil, soy sauce, and a touch of chili oil brings an unmistakable Asian flair to the table. This salad is often served chilled, making it ideal for warm weather or as a complement to any Asian-inspired meal.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its quick preparation but also in its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick snack, this salad is sure to satisfy. The crunchy cucumbers are complemented by roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and a savory dressing made with classic Asian ingredients. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier salads, and the addition of chili oil gives it just the right amount of heat.
Why Choose Asian Cucumber Salad?
The Asian Cucumber Salad stands out because of its lightness, fresh ingredients, and bold flavor profile. Cucumber, the main ingredient, is naturally hydrating and crunchy, which makes it an excellent base for a salad. Unlike leafy greens, cucumbers hold up well to dressings, allowing the flavors to blend without wilting. The soy sauce brings a salty depth, while the sesame oil adds richness and a nutty aroma. For a spicy twist, the addition of chili oil and Korean chili powder enhances the salad’s complexity.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Customization
This salad is incredibly easy to customize. If you enjoy spicier dishes, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha can elevate the heat level to your liking. The salad is also a perfect base for protein, with options to add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crab. For those seeking an extra touch of freshness, adding herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can provide a zesty lift. Additionally, if you’re looking for a heartier version, this cucumber salad can be paired with rice or noodles, making it a complete meal.
Choosing the Right Cucumbers
The key to making a successful Asian Cucumber Salad lies in selecting the right type of cucumber. Mini Persian cucumbers or Japanese cucumbers are the best options for this dish. These varieties are thinner-skinned and contain fewer seeds compared to traditional English cucumbers, which helps maintain the crispness of the salad. If you can’t find mini cucumbers, English cucumbers will work too, but it’s important to peel them or slice them thinly to avoid excess moisture.
If you have the time, salting the cucumbers before making the salad is a pro tip that ensures the salad retains its crunch. Salt draws out moisture from the cucumbers, preventing the dressing from becoming watered down and resulting in a more flavorful dish. After salting, just pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel before mixing them with the dressing.
How to Make the Salad
Making this salad is as easy as slicing the cucumbers and whisking together the dressing ingredients. The dressing for Asian Cucumber Salad typically includes soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili oil, Korean chili powder, and a touch of sugar for balance. Simply mix all these ingredients together until the sugar dissolves, then toss with the cucumbers and garnish with sesame seeds and roasted peanuts.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Asian Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. It’s an excellent side dish for grilled proteins like teriyaki chicken, beef bulgogi, or grilled salmon. It also complements other Asian-inspired appetizers such as spring rolls, gyoza, and egg rolls. For a complete meal, serve the salad alongside a bowl of noodles or a rice-based dish, such as yakisoba or fried rice.
For a more casual setting, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. The cool, crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to warm or spicy main dishes, making it a perfect addition to any spread.
Storage and Leftovers
While this salad is best served fresh, it can be stored for a couple of days in the refrigerator if needed. However, keep in mind that cucumbers lose their crispness over time, so the salad may not have the same crunch after being stored for too long. To extend the salad’s freshness, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it with the cucumbers just before serving.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Asian Delight
Asian Cucumber Salad is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that packs a punch of flavor. With its vibrant combination of fresh cucumbers, sesame oil, and a tangy, spicy dressing, it’s no wonder that this recipe has gained popularity. Whether you’re making it for a light lunch, a side dish, or an appetizer, this salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. The ability to customize the salad to your tastes makes it even more appealing. So, why not give this simple yet flavorful dish a try? It’s a great way to introduce Asian-inspired flavors to your meals without a lot of time or effort.
This refreshing salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger feast, it’s a dish that will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.