why make this recipe
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot days or as a light side dish to your favorite meals. It combines crisp cucumbers with simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together quickly. This salad is not just delicious but also healthy, making it a great addition to any table.
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 the cucumbers well and slice one end at an angle.
- Continue slicing the cucumbers at an angle. The goal is to make oval slices rather than round ones, and the thickness can be 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 chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This helps to draw out excess water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick rinse for about 10 seconds before returning them to the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and the minced garlic if you are using it.
- Stir the mixture until everything is well combined, then serve. Enjoy!
how to serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This salad is best served chilled. It can be a perfect side to many dishes, like grilled meats or rice. You can also enjoy it as a light snack on its own. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top when serving.
how to store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2 days. However, it’s best to eat it within a day for the best texture and flavor.
tips to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Choose Persian cucumbers for a crispier texture. You can also use English cucumbers if you prefer.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your taste. Some may like it sweeter, while others might want it more savory.
- For a spicier version, add more chili oil or some chopped fresh chili.
- Always mix the salad just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.
variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers. For a protein boost, try adding some cooked shrimp or tofu.
FAQs
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, but keep in mind that cucumbers can become soggy over time. It’s best to prepare it a few hours before serving for the freshest taste.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this salad gluten-free.
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they may have more seeds and be less crunchy than Persian cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, it’s a good idea to peel them.
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 pieces Persian cucumbers Choose Persian cucumbers for a crisper texture.
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tbsp sesame oil
- 0.75 tbsp light soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- 0.5-1 tbsp sugar Adjust based on taste preference.
- 0.75 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil Add more for a spicier version.
- 0.5 tbsp sesame seeds For garnish.
- 0.5 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the cucumbers well and slice one end at an angle.
- Continue slicing the cucumbers at an angle to make oval slices.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and let the cucumbers chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick rinse.
- Return cucumbers to the bowl and add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic.
- Stir until everything is well combined, then serve.