Description
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a crisp, refreshing dish with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a quick and easy side dish for stir-fries, grilled meats, or a light snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (toasted)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Sprinkle salt over the cucumber slices, toss, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Drain the cucumbers and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss the Salad
- Combine the cucumbers with the dressing and toss until well coated.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Chill and Serve
- Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for a more intense flavor.
Notes
- Sweeter Twist: Add more sugar or honey.
- Extra Crunch: Include shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken or tofu.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, spicy cucumber salad, quick salad, healthy side dish