If you’re looking for a dish that screams freshness, look no further than this delightful Asian cucumber salad! It’s the kind of salad that bursts with flavor and crunch, making it the perfect companion for any meal or a refreshing snack on its own. I can’t tell you how many times this salad has stolen the show at family gatherings and potlucks! With its bright, tangy dressing and crisp cucumbers, it’s a staple in Asian cuisine that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Seriously, in just 15 minutes, you can have a bowl of vibrant goodness ready to enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its refreshing taste and delightful crunch!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this refreshing Asian cucumber salad. It’s super simple and you might already have some of these ingredients in your pantry!

• 2 large cucumbers, sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Make sure to slice the cucumbers nicely for that perfect crunch! And don’t hesitate to adjust any of the ingredients to suit your taste buds. Enjoy the process of bringing this salad to life!

How to Prepare Instructions

Let’s get down to the fun part—making this delicious Asian cucumber salad! I promise, it’s super straightforward and totally satisfying. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a fresh bowl of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

First things first, grab those cucumbers and slice them up! I like to cut them into thin rounds for that perfect crunch, but you can also go for half-moons if you prefer. Once you’ve sliced them, toss them into a large bowl. This will be the base of your salad, so make sure they’re nice and fresh!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Now, let’s whip up that tangy dressing! In a separate bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes. I like to give it a good whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. The combination of these ingredients is where the magic happens—trust me, the aroma will have you excited for that first bite!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Alright, it’s time to bring it all together! Pour that delicious dressing over the sliced cucumbers in your big bowl. This is where the flavors start to mingle, and it smells divine! Make sure every cucumber slice gets a good coating of that tangy goodness.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

For the finishing touches, sprinkle in the chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These little guys add not only flavor but also a lovely crunch! Gently toss everything together once more, just enough to combine all the ingredients without mushing anything up.

Step 5: Toss and Rest

Now, here’s a little trick: let your salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the cucumbers to soak up all that yummy dressing. It’s worth the wait, I promise! If you can, pop it in the fridge for a bit to chill—it makes every bite even more refreshing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those busy days when you need something fresh and tasty on the table fast.
• Refreshing Taste: With its crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing, it’s like a burst of freshness in every bite. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal. Plus, it’s full of wholesome, natural ingredients!
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish is not only delicious but also completely plant-based. It’s a fantastic option for vegans or anyone looking to lighten up their meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative! You can easily add in other veggies or tweak the dressing to suit your taste. Make it your own!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, this salad is always a hit. Everyone loves it, and it’s a great way to impress your guests!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Asian cucumber salad turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference.

• Adjust the Sugar: Don’t be afraid to play around with the sugar levels in the dressing! If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a little more sugar; if you like it tangy, you can reduce it. It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance!
• Chill for Extra Refreshment: If you have the time, pop the salad in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Chilling enhances the flavors and gives that refreshing crunch that’s so satisfying on a hot day!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers are key! Look for ones that are firm and without blemishes. This will ensure you get that delightful crunch in every bite.
• Experiment with Additional Veggies: Feel free to throw in some other veggies like shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for extra color and texture. It’s a great way to customize the salad to your liking!
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving is important! This allows the cucumbers to absorb all that amazing dressing, making every bite packed with flavor.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Asian cucumber salad that everyone will love. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to jazz up your Asian cucumber salad! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Carrot Crunch: Add some shredded carrots for a pop of color and extra crunch! They pair beautifully with the cucumbers and add a hint of sweetness.
• Bell Pepper Boost: Sliced bell peppers, whether red, yellow, or green, bring vibrant hues and a sweet crunch. You can mix and match for a colorful presentation!
• Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a fragrant twist. These herbs can elevate the flavor profile and bring an exciting freshness to the salad.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the dressing. It’s a fantastic way to spice things up!
• Avocado Creaminess: For a richer texture, add diced avocado just before serving. It brings a creamy element that balances the tangy dressing perfectly.
• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle in some toasted peanuts or cashews for an added crunch and nutty flavor. They not only enhance the texture but also make the salad more filling.

Feel free to mix and match these variations based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re in the mood for. The beauty of this salad is in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Enjoy experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the typical nutritional breakdown for each serving of this refreshing Asian cucumber salad. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used or portion sizes. But it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

• Calories: 60
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 1g

This salad is not only low in calories but also packed with fresh ingredients that bring lots of vitamins to the table. Enjoy guilt-free snacking that’s both nutritious and delicious!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Asian cucumber salad is super easy, and I’ve got a few tips to make sure it stays fresh and delicious! First off, if you find yourself with any leftovers (which can be a rare treat!), transfer the salad to an airtight container. This helps to keep the cucumbers crunchy and the flavors intact. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Now, when it comes to serving it again, there’s no need to reheat this salad—enjoy it chilled! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a bit longer can even enhance the flavors as the cucumbers soak up the dressing. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to mix everything back together, and you’re good to go!

One quick note: If you added any delicate ingredients like green onions or sesame seeds, consider adding those fresh right before you serve to keep their texture and flavor vibrant. Enjoy your refreshing salad, even on day two!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the cucumbers with other vegetables?
Absolutely! While cucumbers are the star of this salad, you can experiment with other crunchy veggies like zucchini or even jicama for a fun twist. Just make sure whatever you choose has a similar crisp texture!

What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute. They’ll give a slightly different flavor but will still work beautifully in the dressing!

How long can I store the salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember that the cucumbers may lose some crunch as they sit in the dressing.

What’s a good way to serve this salad?
I love serving this Asian cucumber salad as a side dish to grilled meats or as part of a refreshing summer meal! It’s also fantastic as a light lunch on its own or even served over a bed of greens for added nutrition. Get creative!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just toss everything together, cover it, and let it chill in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, but I recommend adding the green onions and sesame seeds right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Asian Cucumber Salad: 5 Steps to Refreshing Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A refreshing Asian cucumber salad with a tangy dressing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large cucumbers, sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Slice the cucumbers and place them in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers.
4. Add green onions and sesame seeds.
5. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Adjust sugar based on your taste preference.
• Chill the salad for a refreshing experience.
• You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: asian cucumber salad, cucumber salad, vegan salad