This refreshing Asian cucumber salad is perfect for hot summer days! Crisp cucumbers, tangy rice vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame oil come together beautifully.
You can whip this up in no time, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a light snack. Honestly, I sometimes eat it straight from the bowl! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch. English cucumbers are a great choice because they have fewer seeds. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Persian cucumbers, which are smaller and also crisp.
Rice Vinegar: This gives the salad a tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute. It has a different taste but will still add a nice acidity.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, go for tamari instead. The flavor will be similar!
Sesame Oil: This adds nuttiness to the dish. If you don’t have it, a neutral oil can work, but you might miss that unique flavor. A drizzle of peanut oil can mimic some of that nuttiness.
Fresh Ginger: Adding fresh ginger makes a big difference. You can substitute ground ginger in a pinch, but use half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Keep My Cucumber Salad Crisp?
To maintain that satisfying crunch, follow these simple steps:
- Salt the cucumbers before mixing. This draws out excess water, preventing sogginess. Just a light sprinkle and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- Drain the cucumbers thoroughly. You want to keep things crisp, so get rid of any excess liquid.
- Chill the salad before serving. Allowing it to sit in the fridge lets the cucumbers absorb the flavor while keeping them cold and refreshing.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings!
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for heat
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. So in total, you’ll need around 25 minutes before it’s ready to serve. A quick and easy dish that’s perfect for those warm summer days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and placing them in a bowl. For an extra crunch, sprinkle a little salt on them and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out some moisture. When the time is up, drain any excess liquid to keep your salad nice and crisp!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This creates a lovely tangy and savory dressing that you’ll pour over the cucumbers!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and gently toss them to ensure they’re well coated. Add the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, tossing once more for good measure.
4. Add Some Heat (Optional):
If you enjoy a little kick, sprinkle some red chili flakes or add in sliced fresh chili to give your salad an extra bit of flavor!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together beautifully. Once ready, serve your salad chilled, and watch it disappear at your summer gatherings!
Enjoy your crispy, refreshing, and oh-so-delicious Asian Cucumber Salad! Perfect for a light side dish or snack. 🍽️🌿
FAQ for Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While large slicing cucumbers are great, you can also use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. Just remember that English cucumbers are seedless and have a thinner skin, making them an excellent choice for salads!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain its freshness, it’s best enjoyed within the first day as cucumbers will continue to release moisture.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the cucumber salad several hours ahead of time, just keep it refrigerated. However, if you plan to make it the day before, wait to add the sesame seeds and any spicy elements until just before serving to keep everything crisp.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing side to any Asian-inspired dish. You can also serve it on a bed of greens for a light, healthy meal. Enjoy!
