Let me tell you, this Asian cucumber salad recipe is a game-changer! It’s so refreshing, especially on a hot day, and that tangy dressing just elevates it to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made it—I was hosting a barbecue and wanted something light to balance out the grilled meats. This salad was a hit! It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal, whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip it up again and again!
Ingredients for Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
To create this delightful salad, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced – These beauties are the star of the show, providing that refreshing crunch.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – This adds a tangy zing that makes the salad sing!
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – For that umami flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – This brings a nutty richness to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Just a hint of sweetness to balance the tang.
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes – A little kick to spice things up; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference!
- 2 green onions, chopped – They add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – These are optional, but they give a lovely crunch and a nice finish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making this fabulous salad! Don’t forget to double-check your pantry for any of the staples before shopping!
How to Prepare Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious salad! It’s super simple and comes together in just a few steps. Here’s how to whip it up:
- First, grab those lovely cucumbers and slice them thinly. You want them to be about 1/8 inch thick, so they soak up all that fabulous dressing!
- Next, place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Don’t worry about them being perfect; the more rustic, the better!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes. This is where the magic happens—the flavors will meld beautifully!
- Now, pour this tangy dressing over your cucumbers. Make sure every slice gets coated; it’s all about that flavor!
- Then, toss in the chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Give everything a gentle mix to combine. You can really see how vibrant and fresh it looks!
- Finally, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soak in all that deliciousness. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
And just like that, you have a refreshing Asian cucumber salad ready to impress! It’s a breeze, right? Enjoy every crunchy, tangy bite!
Nutritional Information
Before we dig in, let’s talk about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But here’s a typical breakdown for one serving of this delightful Asian cucumber salad:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 1g
So, you can enjoy this salad guilt-free! It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor while still being healthy. Perfect for any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Incredibly refreshing, perfect for warm days.
- Healthy and low in calories, making it guilt-free.
- Great as a side dish or light main meal.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Asian cucumber salad shines, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t forget to taste the dressing before you pour it over the cucumbers—feel free to adjust the sweetness with more or less sugar to suit your palate. Chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it extra refreshing. If you want to mix things up, try adding a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist or even swapping out sesame oil for peanut oil for a different flavor profile. Experimenting is part of the fun!
Variations on Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to jazz up this salad! Try adding carrots for a sweet crunch or toss in some bell peppers for a pop of color. You could also mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic twist. For a bit of heat, consider adding sliced red chili or even a splash of sriracha to the dressing. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
This Asian cucumber salad is super versatile and pairs wonderfully with so many dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled meats like chicken or pork, as the refreshing crunch balances the savory flavors. It’s also fantastic with rice dishes or as a light topping for tacos. Enjoy it however you like!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Asian cucumber salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2–3 days for optimal crunch and flavor. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, I recommend skipping the green onions and sesame seeds until you’re ready to serve—this keeps everything nice and crisp! There’s no need to reheat; just serve it cold for a refreshing bite every time. Enjoy!
FAQ About Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This salad actually tastes even better after it sits for a while, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes for added crunch and flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free? It can be! Just make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the dressing.
How long will leftovers last? Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for about 2–3 days. Just remember that the cucumbers may soften over time.
Can I add protein to this salad? Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp can turn this refreshing salad into a light meal.
Print
Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe: 5 Ways to Refresh Your Meal
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing Asian cucumber salad with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers and place them in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers.
- Add chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Toss everything to combine.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar according to your taste.
- Chill before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: asian cucumber salad recipe