Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the refreshing flavors of this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad, a perfect side dish for any meal.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:33:37.623Z

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a vibrant dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tangy dressing, perfect for warm days or as a side to your favorite Asian dishes.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing crunch with every bite
Light and healthy, perfect for summer
Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

The Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not only hydrating but also low in calories, making them an ideal ingredient for a light and refreshing salad. Their high water content helps to keep you hydrated, especially during hot summer months. Additionally, cucumbers are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, which is essential for bone health, and potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure.

Incorporating cucumbers into your diet can also aid digestion. Their fiber content promotes a healthy digestive system and can help prevent constipation. This makes our Easy Asian Cucumber Salad not just delicious but also a smart choice for your overall health.

Perfect Pairings

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning. Its light and crisp flavors complement grilled meats, seafood, and even vegetarian dishes. Consider serving it alongside teriyaki chicken, grilled shrimp, or a hearty stir-fry for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Moreover, this salad can serve as a refreshing side for barbecues and picnics. Its simplicity allows it to shine next to richer dishes, providing a perfect balance that enhances your dining experience.

Tips for the Best Salad

To elevate your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad, consider using pickling cucumbers, which are smaller and crunchier than standard cucumbers. They hold up well in salads and add an extra crunch that enhances the overall texture. Additionally, slicing the cucumbers thinly ensures that they absorb the dressing flavor more effectively.

For those who enjoy a little heat, experiment with different types of peppers or add more red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also customize the salad by including other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots for added color and nutrition.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious salad.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped

Make sure to wash the cucumbers thoroughly before slicing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad.

Prepare the Cucumbers

In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to draw out excess water.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Drain any excess water from the cucumbers. Add the dressing to the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. Stir in the sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled option.

Enjoy your refreshing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and crunch. The cucumbers will continue to release water, so you may want to drain some excess liquid before serving again.

To keep the salad crisp, consider storing the cucumbers and dressing separately. Combine them only when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste. Adding chopped cilantro or mint can bring a fresh, herbal note to the salad. You can also include proteins such as grilled chicken or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.

For a tangier version, try incorporating lime juice into the dressing or adding a splash of fish sauce for an umami kick. The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create a version that perfectly fits your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this salad can be made gluten-free.

→ Can I substitute the cucumbers?

You can try using zucchini or radishes for a different texture and flavor.

→ How long will leftovers last?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.