This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is super refreshing and packed with crunchy cucumbers and zesty flavors. With just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss the cucumbers with some soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Perfect for a snack or a tasty addition to dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are my go-to because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find those, Kirby cucumbers work great too! For a twist, try using Persian cucumbers, which are equally crunchy and delicious.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a mild tanginess. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute. White wine vinegar is also great, but it’s a bit sharper, so use less.
Soy Sauce: I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos are an excellent soy-free alternative with a slightly sweet flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love garnishing with cilantro or mint for a fresh pop. If you’re not a fan of either, try parsley or even basil, depending on your taste!
How Do I Properly Remove Excess Moisture from Cucumbers?
Removing excess moisture from cucumbers is key to keeping the salad crisp. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the cucumbers and toss them with salt in a colander. This helps draw out the water.
- Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll see moisture pooling at the bottom.
- Gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any remaining water and pat them dry with paper towels.
This step may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in the final texture of your salad!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad with Fresh Flavors
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Kirby), thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro or fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 15-20 minutes of resting time to draw out the moisture from the cucumbers. You’ll enjoy fresh, crisp flavors ready to serve in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Begin by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers into a colander. Sprinkle the salt over them and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps draw out excess water and keeps your salad crisp! After that time, gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any additional moisture and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and grated ginger if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Transfer the cucumbers to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over them and toss well until the cucumbers are fully coated in that tasty mixture.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Next, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top of the cucumbers. If you’d like, you can also add fresh cilantro or mint leaves for extra flavor and color!
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing salad as a light side dish or snack!
Enjoy your crisp and tasty Asian cucumber salad!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English and Kirby cucumbers are great options due to their crunch and thin skin, you can also use Persian cucumbers. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning a bit if they are sweeter or less salty than your preferred choice!
How Do I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you want to add a kick of heat, consider incorporating sliced red chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the dressing. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the finished salad for an extra spicy touch!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cucumber salad up to 2 hours ahead of time. Just keep it chilled in the fridge. However, if you plan to make it too far in advance, I’d recommend adding the green onions and sesame seeds just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be aware that the cucumbers may become softer as they sit, so enjoy them fresh for the best crisp texture!
