why make this recipe
This salad is quick, fresh, and full of flavor. You can make it in about 30 minutes. It works as a light side for many meals and adds crunch and spice. If you want another easy side to eat with it, try the simple easy chaffle fries for a warm, salty contrast.
introduction
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is cool, bright, and spicy. The cucumbers soak up a salty-sweet dressing with sesame and chili oil. The salad is simple to make and needs little prep. It is great for hot days, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners.
how to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle. Slices should look more oval than round. Thickness should be up to preference.
- Add to a bowl/container and sprinkle 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix that well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
- Drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10 seconds rinse before returning back to the bowl/container.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
- Stir until well combined and serve. Enjoy!
Tip: For a light dessert or something sweet after this salad, you can look at a simple treat like 3-ingredient no-bake brownie bites.
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. Slices should look more oval than round. Thickness should be up to preference.
- Add to a bowl/container and sprinkle 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix that well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
- Drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10 seconds rinse before returning back to the bowl/container.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
- Stir until well combined and serve. Enjoy!
how to serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Serve chilled or at room temperature. It works well with rice, grilled meat, or noodles. Use it as a side for spicy or fried dishes to add a fresh crunch. You can also add it to a bowl meal for extra texture.
how to store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat within 2 days for best crunch. The cucumbers will get softer the longer they sit. If you want firmer cucumbers, drain excess liquid and store dressing separate, then toss just before serving.
tips to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Slice cucumbers on an angle for better bite and look.
- Salt and chill to pull out water so the salad stays crisp.
- Taste and adjust sugar from 1/2 to 1 tbsp based on how sweet you like it.
- Use toasted sesame oil for a richer flavor.
- Minced garlic is optional if you want milder taste.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced green onion or cilantro for fresh herbs.
- Use thinly sliced red chili instead of chili oil for milder heat.
- Add a splash of lime for citrus brightness.
- Toss in a little crushed peanuts for extra crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
A: Yes. Regular cucumbers work fine. Peel and remove seeds if you prefer.
Q: Is the garlic required?
A: No. Garlic is optional. Leave it out if you want a cleaner, milder salad.
Q: How long does it take to make?
A: Active prep is about 10 minutes. Salt and chill for at least 20 minutes.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can make it a few hours ahead, but eat within 1–2 days for best texture.
Q: Can I reduce the spice?
A: Yes. Use less chili oil or omit it and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want control over heat.
Conclusion
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is fast, fresh, and simple to make. For another take on a similar cucumber recipe, see an online version with slight differences at Easy Asian Cucumber Salad – Farah J. Eats. For more ideas on Asian-style cucumber sides and variants, check this guide at Asian Cucumber Salad | Feasting At Home.