Description
Asian Cucumber Salad is a light, refreshing dish with vibrant flavors and crisp textures. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chili flakes, making it the perfect side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove moisture.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar (or honey), and freshly grated ginger. Add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili for a spicy kick.
- Toss the salad: Add the cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10 minutes for a chilled experience.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Add more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for extra crunch and color.
- For a spicier kick, increase chili flakes or use a spicier chili variety like Thai bird’s eye chili.
- Change up the dressing by adding a teaspoon of peanut butter for a creamy twist or lime juice instead of rice vinegar.
- This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
