The Best Homemade Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Asian cucumber salad is crisp, invigorating, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, even on busy weeknights.
- Quick and simple—just chop, toss, and enjoy in under 15 minutes.
- Bold, tangy flavors—a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil that’s irresistibly tasty.
- Crunchy and fresh—the cucumbers stay crisp, giving every bite a satisfying texture.
Recipe
This invigorating Asian cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for a summer meal, combining crisp cucumbers with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s quick to prepare and brings a burst of flavor to any table.
Ingredients:
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 Thai chilies or red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the cucumbers under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and sesame seeds until well combined.
- Add the cucumbers to a serving bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- If using, sprinkle with Thai chilies or chili flakes for added heat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or chili peppers. Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet salad.
Equipment:
Colander, mixing bowl, small bowl, whisk, knife, cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
Asian
Serving:
Serves 4 as a side dish
Nutrition
Light and invigorating, this Asian cucumber salad is packed with flavor and nutrients.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing this crisp Asian cucumber salad with grilled meats, like chicken or beef, for an invigorating contrast. It’s also perfect alongside light noodle dishes, such as sesame or rice noodles, to balance the flavors. Together, they make an easy, delicious meal that feels special yet effortless.
Grilled Meats Pairing
When I think about pairing this Asian cucumber salad with grilled meats, I immediately picture summer evenings where the flavors just come alive. The crisp, tangy salad perfectly complements smoky, savory dishes like marinated chicken or barbecue ribs. I love how the salad’s invigorating bite cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced bite. Whether it’s juicy chicken thighs with a soy-garlic marinade or fall-off-the-bone ribs coated in a sticky glaze, this salad adds a bright, zesty contrast. It’s the kind of combo that makes me want to fire up the grill every weekend and enjoy every bite.
Light Noodle Dishes
Though it’s crisp and invigorating on its own, this Asian cucumber salad really shines when tossed with light noodle dishes for a satisfying yet easy meal. I love pairing it with cold soba or rice noodles—they’re perfect for quick meals, especially during hot summer days. Toss the noodles with a splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, then mix in the salad for a revitalizing combo. It’s one of my go-to summer dishes, light yet filling, and ready in minutes. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for busy days or lazy dinners!
