Why Make This Recipe
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing addition to any meal. Its crisp texture and vibrant flavors make it an ideal side dish, especially during warm days. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients. With {annotations} highlighting its health benefits, this salad is not just delicious, but it’s also a great way to get your daily dose of greens!
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. The slices should look more oval than round and be cut to your preferred thickness.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container, then sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out some water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the excess water and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse before returning them to the bowl or container.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
- Stir until everything is well combined. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a standalone snack. Its zesty taste complements many Asian-inspired meals, making it a versatile choice for any gathering or family dinner.
How to Store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within a day or two for maximum freshness. The longer it sits, the more the cucumbers can lose their crispness, so enjoy it soon after making!
Tips to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- For the best texture, use fresh Persian cucumbers.
- Adjust the sugar to taste, depending on how sweet you like your salad.
- Feel free to add additional toppings like chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for extra flavor.
Variation
You can spice things up by adding thinly sliced carrots or radishes for added crunch and color. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili oil.
FAQs
How long does Easy Asian Cucumber Salad last?
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is best eaten fresh but can last 1-2 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The cucumbers will become softer over time, so enjoy it while it’s still crisp!
Can I make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the cucumbers’ crunchiness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad can be easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular light soy sauce.
Can I make this salad without sesame oil?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sesame oil on hand, you can substitute it with olive oil or any neutral oil. While it may change the flavor slightly, it will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Give this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad a try for a light and tasty dish that everyone will love. Its delightful crunch and fresh flavors make it a favorite at family gatherings or with any meal. Remember to follow on Pinterest and Medium for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and slice the cucumbers at a slight angle to create thin oval pieces.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well and refrigerate for 20 minutes to draw out excess water.
- After resting, drain the water and quickly rinse the cucumbers for about 10 seconds. Return them to the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic (if using).
- Toss until everything is well combined and the cucumbers are evenly coated with dressing.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for extra refreshment.