Why Make This Recipe
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is refreshing, light, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for hot days or as a side dish to your favorite Asian meals. The salad is simple to make, and it uses ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s healthy and can be enjoyed by everyone!
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)
Directions:
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle. Cut them so they look more oval than round. The thickness is up to your preference.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and let the cucumbers sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This helps to draw out the water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse before putting them back in the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic if you are using it.
- Stir everything together until it is well combined. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This salad is best served chilled. You can enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack or as a side dish with grilled meats, rice, or noodles. You can also serve it as a part of an Asian-inspired buffet. The colorful cucumbers and the array of flavors will impress your guests!
How to Store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier on the second day. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Tips to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- For extra crunch, you can add thinly sliced red onions or bell peppers.
- If you prefer a spicier salad, increase the amount of chili oil.
- Taste the salad before serving and adjust the sugar to your liking, especially if the cucumbers are on the bitter side.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like carrots or radishes for a bit more color and flavor. Some people like to include shredded cabbage for added crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if they have a thick skin, and adjust the slicing method to achieve the right thickness.
2. Is this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is vegan, as it contains no animal products. It’s perfect for those following a vegan diet.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salad a day in advance. Just dress it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle to create oval-shaped slices. The thickness is a matter of preference.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and let the cucumbers sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse before putting them back in the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic if using.
- Stir everything together until well combined. Serve and enjoy!