This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is light and refreshing! With crunchy cucumbers, a tangy dressing, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s perfect for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are long and have fewer seeds, perfect for this salad. However, Persian cucumbers are a great alternative as they’re crunchy too. If you’re in a pinch, regular cucumbers work as well; just remove some seeds.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to cut down on salt. Tamari is a gluten-free option that works well too. If you need a stronger flavor, try adding a splash of dark soy sauce!
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang, but if you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can do the trick. Just adjust the amount slightly, as they can be stronger than rice vinegar.
Sesame Oil: This ingredient gives a lovely nutty flavor. If you’re out, try another oil like olive oil, but it won’t give the same richness. Consider adding a dash of peanut butter for a unique twist.
How Do You Keep the Cucumber Salad Crisp?
The key to keeping your salad crispy lies in salting the cucumbers before mixing. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring they don’t turn soggy.
- Slice the cucumbers and sprinkle them with salt, letting them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes.
- Gently pat them dry with paper towels afterward to remove any additional water.
- This method keeps the salad refreshing and bright, really enhancing the flavors.
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is such a quick dish that packs a punch of flavor! Don’t forget to chill it before serving, as the flavors come together beautifully when it’s cold. Enjoy! 🥒
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian)
- 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil (optional, for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an extra 15 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be made in just half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Next, slice them thinly—whether you prefer rounds or half-moons is completely up to you!
2. Draw Out Excess Water:
Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle them lightly with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step draws out any excess moisture which keeps the salad crispy and flavorful.
3. Make the Dressing:
While waiting for the cucumbers, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar or honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if you’re using it) in a small bowl until everything is well combined and the sugar dissolves.
4. Pat Dry the Cucumbers:
After 10 minutes have passed, gently pat the cucumbers dry with some paper towels to remove remaining moisture.
5. Combine Cucumbers and Dressing:
Transfer the dried cucumbers to a mixing bowl, pour the dressing over them, and toss gently until all the cucumbers are nicely coated.
6. Add Toppings:
Add the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili oil, then toss lightly once more.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve cold as a delicious and refreshing side dish!
Enjoy your crisp and flavorful Easy Asian Cucumber Salad! 🥒
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for extra color and flavor. Just slice them thinly to keep the texture consistent with the cucumbers.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just be sure to add the sesame seeds and green onions right before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder salad, simply omit the red pepper flakes or chili oil. For more heat, you can add extra spice or use a spicier chili oil. Just adjust to your taste!
