If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s light, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place with this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad. Not only is this salad deliciously vibrant, but it also brings a medley of textures that will elevate any meal.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful addition to any summer table. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, it tantalizes your taste buds with its tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. Besides being a galore of flavor, it’s remarkably easy to prepare, requiring minimal kitchen work and no cooking. Cucumber, a powerhouse of hydration, forms the base, making this salad nutritious and refreshing.
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and thinly slice the Persian cucumbers (about ¼ inch thick). Peel if desired for a softer texture.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- In a separate bowl, mix sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chili oil until sugar dissolves.
- Drain any liquid from the cucumbers and add them to the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and minced garlic on top. Mix lightly and serve immediately or chilled.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Moreover, this salad is versatile and family-friendly. Customize it to suit your family’s preferences, whether by adjusting the spice levels or adding seasonal ingredients. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your household!
Ingredients for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
To create this vibrant cucumber salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (adjust based on your taste)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Filling
The main ingredient in this salad is the refreshing Persian cucumber. These cucumbers are smaller and don’t have large seeds, making them the perfect choice for salads. You could also opt for other types of cucumbers, like English cucumbers, if you can’t find Persian ones.
Sauce
The dressing of this salad is the real star. Combining sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil, it delivers a delightful balance of flavors that perfectly complements the cool crunch of cucumbers.
Ingredient Notes
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free soy sauces available in stores. You can also substitute soy sauce with a mixture of broth and a splash of lemon juice for a lighter alternative.
- For those looking to avoid sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
- To add a little protein, diced tofu or cooked chicken works excellently.
- If you’d like to make this dish completely soy-free, try tamari sauce or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is simple and quick. Here’s how:
Step 1 – Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing the Persian cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly (around ¼ inch thick) to allow for maximum flavor absorption and a delightful crunch. If you wish, you can peel the cucumbers for a softer texture.
Step 2 – Salt the Cucumbers
Place the sliced cucumbers into a bowl, sprinkle them with salt, and toss gently. Let the cucumbers sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, resulting in a crunchier salad.
Step 3 – Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix together the sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Adjust the sugar based on your desired sweetness and taste. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4 – Combine
After letting the cucumbers sit, drain any excess moisture that has accumulated. Add the cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently to ensure that every cucumber slice is coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
Finish off your salad by sprinkling it with sesame seeds and, if desired, minced garlic for an added kick. Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture!
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Use firm Persian cucumbers for the best crunch. Fresh vegetables will enhance the entire dish.
- Time it Right: Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt helps make them crisper, so don’t skip this step.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of chili oil according to your heat preference; start with less and add more if desired.
- Chill Before Serving: This salad tastes even better when chilled. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
- Garnish Smartly: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can add a delightful freshness.
- Mix Ins: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrients.
Flavor Variations
Feeling inspired to try something new? Consider experimenting with these flavor variations:
- Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Include Other Veggies: Bell peppers and shredded carrots work beautifully with this cucumber salad.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to make it a bit spicier.
- Crunchy Nuts: Add crushed peanuts or cashews for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate chunks of mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired stir-fry. It also makes an excellent topping for rice bowls or lettuce wraps. Whether at a barbecue, picnic, or a family dinner, this salad is a foolproof crowd-pleaser!
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, be mindful that cucumbers may release more moisture over time, which could dilute the dressing. Unfortunately, due to the salad’s nature, freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the cucumbers.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 kcal |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
FAQ About Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately. Slice the cucumbers and mix them with the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.
What kind of vinegar can I use if I don’t have rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile a bit.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The original recipe uses light soy sauce, which contains gluten. However, you can make it gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Diced tofu, grilled chicken, or cooked shrimp can be added for a protein boost, making it a complete meal.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but be sure to peel them and slice them thinly to mimic the texture of Persian cucumbers.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is your ticket to breezy, delicious eating. It combines fresh ingredients with simple preparation, making it an ideal dish for those busy weeknights or sunny picnics. With its vibrant flavors and healthy components, this salad will quickly become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Dive into this delightful dish and enjoy the refreshing exploration of flavors!