Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 5 Persian cucumbers; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil; 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce; 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (to taste); 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp chili oil; 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds; 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)

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easy asian cucumber salad 1 edited — Easy Asian Cucumber Salad 6

Why Make This Recipe

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful dish that brightens any meal. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to prepare, making it the perfect complement to any Asian-inspired feast. The combination of crunchy cucumbers with a savory dressing creates a unique flavor that will have your family asking for more. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with nutrients!

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 and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
Continue slicing at an angle until you have oval-shaped slices that are as thick as you prefer.
Add the slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
Mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the cucumbers to draw out water.
After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse before returning them to the bowl.
Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic to the bowl.
Stir until everything is well combined and serve. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Serve this salad chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, rice dishes, or noodles. It’s also great as a light snack on its own. The fresh flavors make it a wonderful palate cleanser between rich dishes.

How to Store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within two days for the best taste and crispiness. Remember that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.

Tips to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your taste preference.
Use fresh cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are recommended for their sweetness and crispness, but you can also use English or regular cucumbers.
Customize the dressing: You can add more chili oil or a splash of lime juice for a different flavor twist.

Variation

For a different twist, try adding sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color. You can also add herbs like cilantro or mint to enhance the flavors further.

FAQs

What type of cucumbers should I use for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad?

Using Persian cucumbers is ideal for this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad because they are sweet, crisp, and have fewer seeds. However, you can also use English cucumbers or regular cucumbers if needed. Just try to slice them similarly for the best texture.

How long does Easy Asian Cucumber Salad last in the fridge?

Your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad can last for about two days in the refrigerator. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can still store any leftovers in an airtight container. However, the cucumbers may lose their crunch over time.

Can I make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Easy Asian Cucumber Salad a few hours before serving. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. It will help the flavors meld together nicely but is at its best when enjoyed fresh.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! The ingredients are already vegetarian, and you can keep it that way by using plant-based chili oil and ensuring your soy sauce is made without animal products. This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is perfect for everyone.

Conclusion

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a perfect addition to any meal, bringing fresh flavors and a satisfying crunch. It’s simple to prepare and can truly enhance your dining experience. Your family will love the taste, and it’s perfect for gatherings. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest and Medium for more simple recipes!