Cucumber Salad with Easy Asian Flavors

Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of tangy rice vinegar, savory soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil makes this salad not just easy to prepare, but also packed with delicious tastes that will brighten your plate.

Why make this recipe

This salad is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something light yet satisfying. It’s quick to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or picnics. Not to mention, it’s a healthy way to enjoy fresh cucumbers!

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped green onions for garnish

How to make it

1. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes, and salt to create the dressing.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with the dressing and toss until well coated.
3. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

How to serve it

This salad is best served chilled, making it a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

How to store it

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, cucumbers may start to wilt, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Helpful tips

• Adjust the amount of chili flakes depending on your spice preference.
• For added texture, consider adding shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers.

Optional variations

• Try adding julienned carrots for color and crunch.
• You can substitute apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use different types of cucumbers?
Yes! While English cucumbers work well, you can use any variety you have on hand. Just be sure to slice them thinly for the best texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

How long should I let it sit before serving?
A minimum of 15 minutes is recommended to allow the flavors to meld, but you can let it sit for longer if desired. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad that's perfect for hot summer days, featuring cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Asian, Healthy

Servings 4 servings

Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients

  

Salad Ingredients

• 2 large large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes Adjust to taste.
• to taste Salt
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes, and salt to create the dressing.
• In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with the dressing and toss until well coated.
• Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve chilled, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

Adjust chili flakes for spice level. Consider adding shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers for extra texture.

Keyword Cucumber Salad, Easy Salad, Healthy Recipe, Refreshing Salad, Summer Salad