Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-485458H25M26S
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 5 Persian cucumbers; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ tablespoon sesame oil; ¾ tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; ¾ tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon chili oil (to taste); ½ tablespoon sesame seeds

Published: May 16, 2025

by Clare

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This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful dish that brings together crisp cucumbers and a zesty dressing, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a refreshing snack, this salad fits the bill. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for appetizers, side dishes, or light meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for those short on time.
Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh cucumbers ensures a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor in every bite.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a healthy snack throughout the day.
Adjustable Spice Level: You can easily modify the amount of chili oil to suit your heat preference—perfect for all palates!
Healthy Option: With minimal ingredients and no heavy dressings, this salad is a guilt-free addition to your meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this refreshing salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing cucumbers easy and ensures clean cuts for better presentation.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your countertops.
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows enough space to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Salad

5 Persian cucumbers
½ teaspoon salt
½ tablespoon sesame oil
¾ tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
¾ tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust to taste)
½ tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers

Rinse the cucumbers under cold water. Slice one end at an angle to create an oval shape. Continue slicing at an angle so that all pieces remain consistent in thickness according to your preference.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and mix well. Let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This process helps draw out excess water from the cucumbers.

Step 3: Drain and Rinse

After 20 minutes, drain any released water from the bowl. Quickly rinse the cucumbers under cold water for about 10 seconds before returning them back to the bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, and sesame seeds directly into the bowl with the cucumbers. Stir everything together until fully combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

For best results, serve immediately. This ensures that you enjoy optimal texture and flavor in every bite!

Notes

Spice Level: Adjust chili oil according to your heat preference.
Serving Suggestion: This salad pairs beautifully with rice, grilled meats, or noodles.

How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is versatile and can enhance any meal. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or light snack, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy it.

As a Refreshing Side Dish

Pair it with grilled meats for a vibrant contrast.
Serve alongside rice dishes to add a crunchy texture.

In a Rice Bowl

Use the salad as a topping for rice bowls, adding freshness and flavor.
Combine with avocado and protein for a satisfying meal.

As an Appetizer

Present the salad in small bowls as a starter before the main course.
Garnish with extra sesame seeds for visual appeal.

With Noodles

Toss the salad into cold noodle dishes for added crunch.
Mix with soba noodles and a light dressing for a quick meal.

As a Light Snack

Enjoy it on its own for a healthy afternoon snack.
Pair with crackers or pita chips for added crunch.

How to Perfect Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

To make your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind.

Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers without blemishes for the best flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting soy sauce or sugar according to your preference.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad before serving to enhance the flavors and crispness.
Use Quality Oils: Opt for high-quality sesame oil and chili oil to elevate the dish’s taste.
Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
Serve Immediately: For optimal texture, serve the salad right after preparing it.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in soy sauce provide a savory balance.
Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice adds heartiness and pairs well with the crisp salad.
Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies offer a light and crunchy addition.
Teriyaki Salmon: A sweet and savory salmon dish enhances the overall meal experience.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful stir-fried vegetables bring both nutrition and flavor to your plate.
Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings contrast nicely with the crispness of the cucumber salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting the cucumbers can lead to a watery salad. Always salt them first and let them rest to draw out excess moisture.
Using Thick Slices: Cutting cucumbers too thick will result in a less enjoyable texture. Aim for thin, angled slices for the best results.
Ignoring Chili Oil Adjustments: Failing to adjust the chili oil might make the salad either too spicy or bland. Taste as you go to find your preferred spice level.
Making Dressing Too Early: Preparing the dressing too far in advance can affect its freshness. Make it just before serving for the best flavor.
Serving Without Chilling: Not chilling the salad before serving can lessen its refreshing quality. Give it at least 20 minutes in the fridge after salting.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Freezing is not recommended, as it affects texture and flavor.
Fresh cucumbers do not freeze well.

Reheating Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Oven: Not applicable; this salad is best served cold.
Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the cucumbers and alter texture.
Stovetop: Not recommended; serve fresh and cold instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Asian Cucumber Salad?

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

How long does Easy Asian Cucumber Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts about 2-3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Can I customize my Easy Asian Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, or even proteins like tofu for extra nutrition and taste.

Is Easy Asian Cucumber Salad healthy?

Yes, this salad is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Asian Cucumber Salad offers a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors that make it perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows for various customizations based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a refreshing dish that’s simple to prepare!

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