This refreshing Asian cucumber salad is perfect for hot summer days! It combines crispy cucumbers with a tangy dressing made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil, giving it a delightful kick.
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. Just chop cucumbers, mix the dressing, and toss—easy peasy! It’s a great side for barbecues or just a tasty treat to enjoy by itself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are longer and have fewer seeds, making them great for salads. Persian cucumbers are also fresh and crunchy. If you can’t find these, regular cucumbers work too; just peel them if the skin is thick.
Rice Vinegar: This brings a mild sweetness. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar can substitute, but use a little less as it’s tangier. Some like using a bit of lime juice for a citrusy twist!
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gluten-free option, look for tamari. If you’re vegetarian, coconut aminos are a tasty alternative.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, any neutral oil like canola can work, but you’ll miss that signature sesame taste.
Sweetener: You can use sugar or honey. For a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup also does the trick!
How Do I Ensure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
Keeping your cucumbers crisp is essential! Salting them at the beginning draws out excess moisture, preventing a soggy salad. Here’s how:
- Slice cucumbers and sprinkle salt. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- Afterward, squeeze gently before mixing with dressing. This step keeps the salad fresh and crunchy!
Also, chilling the salad helps all the flavors come together without making the cucumbers mushy. Enjoy your refreshing side dish!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, let it chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. So, in total, you will need about 45 minutes for a refreshing dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Thinly slice them and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with the salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps remove extra water from the cucumbers, keeping the salad crunchy!
2. Mix the Dressing:
While the cucumbers sit, prepare the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, grated ginger if you’re using it, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Combine Cucumbers and Dressing:
After 15 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to get rid of remaining water, then transfer them to a mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss until they’re evenly coated.
4. Garnish and Chill:
Next, add chopped cilantro or green onions over the top and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor. For the best taste, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this crisp, flavorful Asian cucumber salad as a refreshing side dish all summer long! Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just a light snack!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English and Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad due to their thin skin and mild flavor, you can also use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if the skin is thick or too waxy.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes in the dressing! You can also add a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick if you’re a spicy food lover.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad can be prepared a few hours or even the day before. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, but it’s best consumed within 1-2 days for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but remember, the longer it sits, the more water the cucumbers will release, affecting the texture. Make sure to stir before serving again!
