Wholesome and Refreshing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Enjoy a burst of flavors with this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad that brings together fresh ingredients. This salad complements many meals and makes for a perfect side dish. With a blend of tangy and spicy tastes, it’s sure to please your taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad for its refreshing qualities and simple preparation. It provides a delightful crunch that pairs well with various dishes, especially grilled meats or rice bowls. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and a hint of chili oil creates an unforgettable taste. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare! Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear quickly.
How to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Step by Step
- Rinse and slice one end of a cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle, making the pieces look more oval than round and adjusting the thickness to your liking.
- Place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the excess water and give the cucumbers a quick rinse for about 10 seconds before returning them to the bowl.
- Add the sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic, if using.
- Stir until everything is well combined, and then serve. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Serve this salad as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish with main dishes like grilled chicken or stir-fried recipes. It also works well as a light lunch option when paired with a protein source, like tofu or shrimp.
How to Store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best consumed within a couple of days to maintain its freshness and crunchiness. If the cucumbers release too much water, simply drain it before serving again.
Tips to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Adjust the sugar levels based on your preferred sweetness.
- For added crunch, include sliced radishes or shredded carrots.
- If you like more spice, add extra chili oil or red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can substitute Persian cucumbers with English cucumbers or regular cucumbers if needed. Adjust the seasoning to match the different textures.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours before serving. Just be aware that the cucumbers may release more water as they sit.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is easy to make in bulk and works well for meal prep, just keep it in the fridge in a sealed container.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Definitely! You can add sliced bell peppers, green onions, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
For more delicious and easy recipes, check out this high-protein chicken salad or this crispy garlic chicken fried rice.
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 pieces Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar adjust based on your preferred sweetness
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil add more for spiciness
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse and slice one end of a cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle, making the pieces look more oval than round and adjusting the thickness to your liking.
- Place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the excess water and give the cucumbers a quick rinse for about 10 seconds before returning them to the bowl.
- Add the sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic, if using.
- Stir until everything is well combined, and then serve. Enjoy!