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Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

4.6 from 101 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 5 Persian cucumbers

Seasonings and Dressing

  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1/21 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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