asian cucumber salad

Crisp and cool, the Asian cucumber salad dances on your palate like a summer breeze. Imagine biting into juicy cucumbers tinged with soy sauce, sesame oil, and just the right kick of spice—pure bliss in a bowl. This is not just any salad; it’s a flavor explosion that shouts “refresh me!” every time you take a forkful.

When I first tried making this Asian cucumber salad during a hot summer picnic, I knew I was onto something special. My friends were skeptical at first—after all, how exciting could cucumbers be? But after one bite of that tangy goodness, they were fighting over the last spoonful! Trust me; you’ll want to whip this up for your next gathering.

I once made this salad for a friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say it vanished faster than cake at a kid’s party!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cucumbers: Opt for fresh and firm cucumbers; English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
• Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang; consider using seasoned rice vinegar for extra flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; it contributes an aromatic nuttiness that’s simply irresistible.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the dish depth; avoid powdered garlic for better flavor impact.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust according to your heat preference; these add the perfect spicy kick.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds enhance crunchiness while providing delightful visual appeal.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color—don’t skip them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Slice them thinly using either a knife or mandoline for uniformity.

Create the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined. The aroma will be heavenly.

Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers with dressing. Add chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds to elevate both flavor and presentation.

Let It Marinate: Allow the mixture to sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This helps the cucumbers soak up all those mouthwatering flavors.

Serve and Enjoy!: Once marinated, give everything another gentle toss before serving. Watch everyone enjoy their first bite—it’ll be love at first crunch!

This Asian cucumber salad is not only easy to prepare but also brings bright colors and refreshing flavors that will impress anyone fortunate enough to snag some on their plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing cucumbers thinly, then salt them to draw out moisture while you prepare the dressing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to incorporate cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots for extra color and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; no reheating needed!

Visiting my friend’s summer barbecue, I brought this salad along and watched it disappear within minutes! Everyone wanted the recipe, and I happily shared my secrets.

FAQ

What type of cucumbers are best for Asian cucumber salad?

Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and minimal seeds, ensuring a crisp texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add the dressing just before serving for maximum crunchiness.

Is there a way to make this salad spicier?

Absolutely! Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to kick up the heat level.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Refreshing and vibrant, this Asian cucumber salad combines crisp cucumbers with a tangy dressing for a delightful side dish that perfectly complements any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups sliced English cucumbers (about 2 medium cucumbers)
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them thinly using a knife or mandoline for uniformity.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers with the dressing. Add chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
4. Allow the mixture to marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavors.
5. Toss gently before serving and enjoy the refreshing crunch!

Notes

• For extra color and flavor, consider adding cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots.
• To maintain crispness, add dressing just before serving if preparing in advance.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg