Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Introduction

This easy Asian cucumber salad is a crisp, cool, and crave-worthy dish that brings together refreshing cucumbers with a bold, savory, tangy, and just-spicy-enough dressing. Whether you’re looking for a side to brighten up a hearty meal or a light snack that’s full of flavor, this salad delivers every time.

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Reasons to Love This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

• ✅ Quick & easy – Done in under 30 minutes.

• 🥢 Bursting with flavor – Sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy.

• 🧊 Perfectly crunchy – Thanks to the “sweating” technique.

• 🌿 Healthy and light – Great as a side dish or midday snack.

• 🧄 Customizable – Adjust the spice level and ingredients easily.

• 🍱 Pairs well with a variety of dishes – From rice bowls to grilled meats.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients are simple and easy to find in most grocery stores or Asian markets.

Persian Cucumbers

These are preferred for their small size, thin skin, and fewer seeds. They stay crisp even after being dressed.

Salt

Used to sweat the cucumbers and draw out excess water for a crunchier texture.

Sesame Oil

Adds a deep, nutty aroma and rich flavor that ties the dressing together.

Light Soy Sauce

Gives the salad its savory, umami depth. Opt for low-sodium if preferred.

Sugar

Balances the acidity and saltiness in the dressing. Start small and adjust to taste.

Rice Vinegar

Provides tanginess that lifts the overall flavor profile.

Chili Oil

Spicy, fragrant, and bold. Adjust the quantity to match your spice tolerance. Homemade or store-bought both work!

Sesame Seeds

A little sprinkle adds texture and a hint of nuttiness.

Garlic (Optional)

A small amount of minced garlic adds a delightful bite. Totally optional, but highly recommended.

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Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Add thinly sliced red onions for a sharper bite.

• Try Japanese cucumbers if Persian ones aren’t available.

• Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

• Add crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch.

• Use black vinegar in place of rice vinegar for a deeper tang.

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Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife or mandoline

• Cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring spoons

• Strainer or colander

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice the cucumbers at a slight angle for elongated, elegant pieces. Aim for medium-thin slices.

2. Salt them by tossing in ½ teaspoon of salt. Let rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture.

3. Drain the liquid and rinse briefly under cold water. Pat dry or squeeze gently to remove excess water.

4. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chili oil.

5. Add cucumbers back into the bowl along with sesame seeds and optional garlic.

6. Toss everything until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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What to Serve with Asian Cucumber Salad

This vibrant salad complements so many dishes! Try it with:

• 🌶 Bang Bang Shrimp

• 🥡 Fried Rice or Noodles

• 🍗 Teriyaki Chicken or Korean BBQ

• 🍤 Garlic Butter Shrimp

• 🥦 Stir-Fried Vegetables or Tofu

Its lightness cuts through rich or spicy mains beautifully.

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How to Store Asian Cucumber Salad

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Store for up to 2 days. Beyond that, cucumbers begin to soften and lose their crunch.

• For meal prep, keep the cucumbers and dressing separate until serving.

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Can I Freeze Asian Cucumber Salad?

Unfortunately, no. Cucumbers have a high water content and will become mushy when thawed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the cucumbers and dressing separately. Mix just before serving.

2. How spicy is it with chili oil?
It depends on your chili oil. Start with a small amount and taste before adding more.

3. Can I use English cucumbers?
You can, but remove the seeds and consider peeling the skin for better texture.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

5. Can I use white vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
You can, but reduce the amount slightly and consider adding a pinch more sugar.

 

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Two Resources You’ll Love

• 🧄 Homemade Garlic Chili Oil Recipe – Add bold heat to any dish!

• 🥒 Asian Slinky Cucumber Salad (Cucumber Spirals) – A fun twist on the classic!

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Nutritional Information

(Per Serving – Approximate)

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Conclusion

This easy Asian cucumber salad might just become your new go-to for a quick, refreshing, and flavor-packed side. It’s vibrant, versatile, and comes together in a flash. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this salad will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s loved by so many!

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