This refreshing Asian cucumber salad is perfect for hot summer days! It’s light, crunchy, and brings together cool cucumbers with a zingy dressing that adds a burst of flavor.
Whip it up in just a few minutes and you’ve got a tasty side dish or a snack ready. Plus, I love that it’s so simple, it gives me more time to enjoy the sun! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are great choices as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work too. Just peel them if the skin is tough.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a mild sweetness. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will slightly change the flavor but still taste good.
Sesame Oil: It brings a nice nutty flavor. If you need an alternative, avocado oil or peanut oil can be used, though they won’t have that distinctive taste.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a vibrant taste. If you’re in a pinch, use ground ginger, but half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Cucumbers Crisp and Flavorful?
The key to a delicious salad lies in how you handle the cucumbers. Salting them not only draws out water but also amps up their flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- After slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove excess moisture before adding them to your dressing.
- This step keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from being watery.
Chill the salad for at least 20 minutes. This allows the cucumbers to soak up the dressing’s flavors. Enjoy your refreshing dish!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy addition to any summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. The thinner they are, the more flavor they will soak up from the dressing!
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess water, keeping your salad nice and crisp.
3. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are sitting, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Adjust the sweetness or acidity as you prefer!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
After the cucumbers have sat, gently squeeze them to release any more moisture and transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated.
5. Add Freshness and Serve:
Garnish your salad with chopped cilantro or green onions and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a lovely crunch. To enhance the flavors, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your crisp, tangy Asian cucumber salad — a perfect cool bite for hot summer days!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their mild taste and thin skin, regular cucumbers can also be used. Just peel them if the skin is tough and the seeds are large.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you want a bit of heat, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a diced fresh chili pepper. You can also drizzle some Sriracha or another hot sauce over the salad before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the garnish (cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds) just before serving to keep them fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more water over time, so you might want to drain some of the liquid before serving again.
