This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is all about fresh taste! Crisp cucumbers mix with a tangy dressing made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are great due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. You can also use Kirby cucumbers, which are crunchy and perfect for salads. If these aren’t available, any firm cucumber will work, but slice them thinner for the best texture.
Soy Sauce: I recommend low-sodium soy sauce to keep the saltiness in check. If you’re avoiding soy altogether, tamari or coconut aminos are excellent gluten-free alternatives.
Rice Vinegar: This vinegar adds a mild sweetness. If you can’t find it, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar could work, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Sugar or Honey: I typically use sugar for simplicity, but honey adds a nice touch of flavor. If you’re cutting back on sweetness, feel free to adjust to taste. Agave syrup is another good substitute if you’re vegan.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty note. If you don’t have fresh ginger, a pinch of ground ginger can work in a pinch, but use much less as it’s more potent.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Cucumber Salad?
The key to a great cucumber salad lies in preparing your cucumbers properly. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly; this helps them absorb the dressing better.
- If you like, sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with some salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess water and keeps your salad from getting soggy.
- After salting, rinse the cucumbers quickly under cold water and pat dry. This makes for a crisper texture!
Remember, let your salad sit for a bit before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making every bite tasty!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably English or Kirby), thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad comes together in about 15 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the dressing, then just let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow those fresh flavors to combine. It’s quick and full of vibrant taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers. If you have time, you can sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release some moisture. This helps keep your salad crisp. After sitting, rinse off any excess salt if desired.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves completely. This dressing is what gives the salad its amazing flavor!
3. Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers with the dressing until they are well coated. Make sure every slice is covered in that delicious mixture.
4. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the cucumbers, and add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Toss again gently to combine.
5. Let It Sit:
Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or chill it in the fridge for a cooler serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Give the salad a quick toss before serving. This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is now ready to enjoy as a refreshing side dish for any meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for extra crunch and color. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure they absorb the dressing well.
How Can I Make This Salad Gluten-Free?
To make the salad gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. These alternatives provide a similar flavor without the gluten.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will continue to release moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, give it a quick toss to refresh the flavors before serving again!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until ready to serve. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to add the dressing just before serving, especially if you prefer your cucumbers crispy!
