Description
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish, combining the crisp crunch of cucumbers with a bold sesame-soy dressing. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, it’s a perfect appetizer, snack, or side for any Asian-inspired meal, and ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tbsp sesame oil
- ¾ tbsp light soy sauce
- ½ to 1 tbsp sugar (to taste)
- ¾ tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust to heat preference)
- ½ tbsp sesame seeds
- ½ tbsp minced garlic (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
Rinse the cucumbers and slice one end at an angle. Continue slicing diagonally into thin, oval-shaped pieces. - Draw Out Moisture:
Place cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out moisture. - Drain and Rinse:
Drain the liquid and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse. Return them to the bowl. - Make the Dressing:
Add sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic (if using). - Mix and Serve:
Mix until the cucumbers are evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Variations:
- Add thinly sliced red onions or scallions for extra flavor.
- Toss in shredded carrots or radish for more crunch.
- Substitute Persian cucumbers with English cucumbers.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts or chopped cilantro for added texture.
- Use a splash of lime juice for a citrusy twist.
- Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly over time but will retain flavor. This dish is served cold and does not require reheating.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
