This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy cucumbers with a zesty dressing. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for summertime meals!
I love how quickly this salad comes together. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, the tangy dressing makes it extra tasty. Who knew healthy could be so delicious? 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crispy cucumbers are key! English cucumbers are a great choice as they’re less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if you prefer a milder taste.
Rice Vinegar: This vinegar gives a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute, though it will have a slightly different taste.
Soy Sauce: I use regular soy sauce for saltiness and umami. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap in tamari sauce. For a lighter flavor, consider low-sodium soy sauce.
Honey/Sugar: Honey adds a nice sweetness. If you need a vegan option, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead. You can also adjust the sweetness to your liking by using more or less.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you’re out of sesame oil, a light olive oil can work, but you’ll miss that distinct taste. Toasted sesame oil enhances the flavor even more!
How Do I Make the Dressing Flavorful?
The dressing is super simple but crucial for flavor. Start by mixing the ingredients in a bowl before adding them to the cucumbers to ensure everything blends nicely. Whisk the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
- For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to your dressing. Start with a pinch, and adjust to your taste.
- Let the dressing sit for a few minutes before combining it with cucumbers to enhance the flavors.
This makes a big difference in the overall taste of your salad!
How to Make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad with Tangy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Optional: red pepper flakes to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and assembly, plus a little time to chill in the fridge—around 15 minutes. In less than half an hour, you will have a delicious and refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers, then slice them thinly. You can use a knife or a mandoline for even slices. Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well until everything is combined and smooth.
3. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or your hands, making sure all the cucumber slices are coated with the dressing.
4. Add the Extras:
Now, add in the sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Toss everything gently again to mix it all together.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and sprinkle in some salt if needed. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This waiting time lets all those yummy flavors mingle!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, stir the salad one last time and serve cold as a fresh side dish or appetizer. Enjoy your crunchy, tangy cucumber salad!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes for extra crunch and color. Just chop them thinly to keep the texture similar to the cucumbers.
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so give it a quick toss before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for making ahead! Just prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to develop even more. Just remember to give it a stir before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, try using maple syrup, agave nectar, or even coconut sugar for a vegan option. Adjust the quantity to taste, as different sweeteners can vary in sweetness.
