Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking

I absolutely adore how refreshing this Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad is, especially on a hot day. The crisp cucumbers paired with the tangy dressing create a vibrant dish that compliments any meal. I love how simple it is to make, yet bursting with flavor. It’s an excellent side that brings a touch of the Asian cuisine right into my kitchen. The sesame seeds and fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-12T12:50:19.150Z

When I first experimented with this Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad, I wanted to create a light dish that would pair perfectly with my favorite grilled recipes. The method I developed focuses on slicing the cucumbers thinly to maximize their crunch and soaking them in a flavorful dressing just before serving. This step is crucial as it helps the cucumbers absorb the delicious flavors without becoming soggy.

One of my favorite aspects of this salad is the versatility it offers. Sometimes, I add a dash of chili flakes for heat or toss in some sliced radishes for an extra crunch. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, which is why I keep coming back to this recipe time and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
A nutritious and vibrant addition to any meal

Getting the Right Texture

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad lies in the initial salting process. By allowing the sliced cucumbers to rest with salt for 10 minutes, you draw out excess water, which prevents the salad from becoming soggy. This technique enhances the crispness of the cucumbers, making each bite refreshing. You can also experiment with different cucumber varieties; for instance, English cucumbers tend to have fewer seeds and thicker skin, providing an even crunchier texture.

When selecting cucumbers, look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes. Handling them with care during slicing will also help maintain their crunch. If you're looking to add a bit more flavor and crunch, consider replacing a portion of the cucumbers with thinly sliced radishes or jicama. These ingredients add a welcome bite while complementing the dish’s overall profile.

Dressing Tips

The dressing for this salad plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, so it's important to whisk the ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved before combining it with the cucumbers for an even distribution of sweetness. If you're watching your sugar intake, feel free to adjust the amount or substitute it with a low-calorie sweetener, though the original flavor profile may change slightly.

To add a kick of heat, you can incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the dressing. This will elevate the dish without overpowering its refreshing qualities. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week; just give it a good shake before using.

Serving and Variations

This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to a variety of meals, particularly grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries. For a heartier option, you might add cooked quinoa or grilled chicken, transforming it into a complete meal. It’s also perfect for picnics or potlucks, as the flavors deepen when allowed to marinate for a few hours in the fridge without compromising the cucumbers’ texture.

If you're entertaining guests, consider garnishing the salad with thin slices of red chili or additional herbs like mint for a fresh twist. Each variation allows you to customize the salad according to your preferences while keeping its refreshing essence. Remember, the crunch of the cucumbers paired with the aromatic dressing is what makes this dish truly shine.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Cucumbers

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This step draws out excess water and helps keep the salad crunchy.

Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and mix until the sugar dissolves.

Combine and Toss

After 10 minutes, drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the dressing, then toss in the sesame seeds and green onions. Mix well to ensure everything is coated.

Serve

Garnish the salad with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad immediately for the best flavor and crunch!

Enjoy this refreshing salad with your favorite Asian dishes!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sliced radishes or shredded carrots to the salad. Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the amount of sugar to suit your taste.

Ingredient Insights

Rice vinegar is a staple in this salad, providing a mild, sweet acidity that enhances the overall flavor. It's less abrasive than apple cider or white vinegar, making it an ideal choice for maintaining the salad's refreshing nature. If you can't find rice vinegar, you could substitute it with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and a touch of sugar to mimic the sweet and sharp profile.

Sesame oil not only adds a nutty aroma but also brings healthy fats to the dish, enriching both flavor and texture. Choose a light sesame oil for dressing, as toasted sesame oil is potent and better suited for finishing dishes rather than as a base. This distinction can significantly influence your salad's taste.

Storage Instructions

For the best eating experience, it's advisable to enjoy this Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad soon after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, but keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some of their crunch over time due to the dressing. To help combat this, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it only when ready to serve.

If you wish to meal prep, prepare the cucumbers and dressing separately, and then combine them right before serving. This method will maintain the salad’s crispness, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant flavors as if it were freshly made, even after a couple of days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and chop the cucumbers a few hours ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile; feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even edamame for added nutrition.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, the salad will be gluten-free.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

The salad is best eaten within a day, but you can store leftovers for up to 2 days. Keep them in an airtight container.