This Asian cucumber salad recipe is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases the crispness of cucumbers combined with a zesty dressing. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish to any Asian-inspired meal, this salad is both light and flavorful. The balance of sweet, salty, and tangy notes, paired with the crunch of fresh vegetables, makes this salad not only visually appealing but also a delightful addition to your meal rotation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Asian cucumber salad for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The bright flavors of rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar create a tantalizing dressing that elevates the simple cucumber. This dish is also perfect for those following a healthy lifestyle, as it’s low in calories and packed with nutrients. Plus, it only takes about 15 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Tips and Tricks
- For maximum crunch, choose English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
- Slice cucumbers thinly using a mandoline for even pieces and a more sophisticated look.
- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of visual appeal.
- Consider chilling the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing cold dish.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can slice cucumbers and prepare the dressing ahead of time. The cucumbers can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container. Just combine the dressing with the cucumbers right before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Recipe Variations
- Spice it up by adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- For a heartier salad, include shredded carrots or bell peppers for added color and texture.
- Swap out the cucumbers for other crunchy veggies like radishes or jicama for a different twist.
- Add protein by tossing in edamame or grilled chicken for a more filling dish.
How to Serve
Serve this Asian cucumber salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro for a touch of freshness. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, steamed rice, or as part of a larger Asian meal spread, offering a bright contrast to richer dishes.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp, chilled Riesling or a refreshing green tea to complement the salad’s flavors. As for side dishes, serve it alongside teriyaki chicken, spring rolls, or a flavorful fried rice for a complete meal. For dessert, a light mango sorbet would be the perfect finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers may lose their crunch after a day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing.
Equipment Needed
- A sharp knife or mandoline for slicing cucumbers
- A mixing bowl for combining the salad
- An airtight container for storing leftovers
Dietary Adaptations
To make this salad vegan, ensure the dressing is made with plant-based ingredients. Substitute honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan option. For a nut-free version, simply omit any nuts or seeds. This recipe is already gluten-free, but double-check the soy sauce if using store-bought.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh, locally sourced cucumbers for the best flavor. In the fall, consider adding slices of apple or pear for a seasonal twist. In winter, you might experiment with brussels sprouts, finely shaved, to add crunch in a different way.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the cucumbers? Yes, feel free to use zucchini or radishes for a different flavor.
- How long can I let the salad sit before serving? Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes, but it can sit for up to an hour in the fridge.
- Can I add protein? Absolutely! Adding grilled shrimp or chicken can turn this salad into a main dish.
How To Make asian cucumber salad recipe
Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian cucumber salad recipe is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases the crispness of cucumbers combined with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 medium English cucumbers
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a knife or mandoline.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic until the sugar dissolves.
- After 10 minutes, drain excess liquid from the cucumbers. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Combine the cucumbers with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 65Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1662mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 1gSugar: 5gProtein: 1g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Asian cucumber salad recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing lightness and flavor to the table. It’s easy to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a healthy snack, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors and making it your own!
