Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy, savory dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a refreshing appetizer or side dish, perfect for quick preparation and brightening up any meal.
Ingredients
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle, continuing to slice at the same angle. The slices should be oval-shaped and cut to your preferred thickness.
- Step 2: Place the cucumber slices in a bowl or container, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out excess water.
- Step 3: Drain the released water and quickly rinse the cucumbers for about 10 seconds, then return them to the bowl or container.
- Step 4: Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic (if using). Stir thoroughly until combined.
- Step 5: Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, flavorful salad.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the sugar amount starting with 1/2 tbsp, tasting as you go to balance the heat and acidity according to your preference.
- Garlic is optional but adds a nice kick—feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Control the heat by modifying the quantity of chili oil or choose a milder version.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the cucumbers release water over time, the salad is best enjoyed fresh or within a day for optimal crispness. Reheat is not recommended as this is a cold dish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, regular cucumbers work well, though peeling and removing seeds might improve texture and reduce bitterness.
How spicy is this salad?
The heat depends on the chili oil used and how much you add. You can adjust the chili oil quantity to suit your desired spice level or omit it for a mild version.
PrintEasy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad features thinly sliced Persian cucumbers dressed in a tangy, savory, and slightly spicy dressing made with sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, and a touch of sugar. Perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant Asian flavors.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 5 Persian cucumbers
Seasonings and Dressing
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2–1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp minced garlic (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the Cucumbers: Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice one end of each cucumber at an angle to create oval-shaped slices rather than round ones. Slice according to your preferred thickness.
- Salt and Refrigerate: Place the sliced cucumbers into a bowl or container. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt over them and mix well to distribute the salt evenly. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out excess water from the cucumbers.
- Drain and Rinse: After refrigerated resting, drain the water released by the cucumbers. Quickly rinse the cucumbers under cold running water for about 10 seconds to remove excess salt, then return them to the bowl or container.
- Prepare Dressing and Toss: Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar (starting with 1/2 tablespoon and adjusting to taste), rice vinegar, chili oil (to your desired heat level), sesame seeds, and minced garlic if using. Stir everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and makes a refreshing appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Notes
- Sugar: Begin with 1/2 tablespoon and adjust according to your taste preference and the type of chili oil used.
- Garlic: Optional but recommended for added flavor.
- Chili oil: Adjust the quantity to control the spiciness. You can use homemade or store-bought chili oil.
- Best served immediately for optimal freshness and texture.
Keywords: condiment, cucumber, cucumber salad, easy asian recipe, easy recipe, side dish
