Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 clove garlic , minced; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon scallions , thinly sliced; 0.5 teaspoon chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional)

Too hot to turn on the oven? This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is for you.

It is crisp, cool, and perfectly tangy. Your family will love this refreshing side dish. It brings a bright crunch to any meal. This is the perfect healthy reset for your summer menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights. It takes only 15 minutes to prep. You get a restaurant-quality side right at home. It is budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples.

The flavors are balanced and bright. It is light enough for a hot day. Everyone will ask for seconds! You can feel good about serving this nutritious dish to your kids.

Simple Method

Making this is incredibly simple and fast. You just slice, salt, and whisk. The salt helps keep the cucumbers extra crunchy. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. It is a fail-proof recipe for any home cook.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are mostly pantry staples that deliver big flavor.

2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoon scallions, thinly sliced
0.5 teaspoon chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step

Place sliced cucumbers in a colander, toss with salt, and let stand for 10 minutes.
Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove remaining surface liquid.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic.
Transfer the cucumbers to a large serving bowl and pour the dressing over them.
Toss the cucumbers thoroughly to ensure even coating.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor development.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this chilled for the best experience. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or salmon. You can also add it to a grain bowl. It is the perfect summer side for your next BBQ. Set it on the table and watch it disappear.

Keep It Fresh

This salad is best when eaten fresh. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for one day. The cucumbers will release more water over time. Simply drain the extra liquid before eating. It is a great make-ahead option for quick weekday lunches.

Tips for Best Results

Don’t skip the salting step to avoid soggy cucumbers.
Use English cucumbers because they have thinner skins.
Avoid using regular table salt; kosher salt works best.
Grate your ginger fresh for the best flavor impact.
Add more chili oil if you like a spicy kick.
For summer gatherings, double the batch for a crowd.
Toast your own sesame seeds for extra nuttiness.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap rice vinegar for lime juice for a citrus twist.
Add sliced radishes for extra crunch and color.
Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
In summer, add fresh mint or cilantro for extra brightness.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, it is best enjoyed the same day. The cucumbers stay crisp and fresh that way.

What if I don’t have English cucumbers?

You can use regular garden cucumbers instead. Just be sure to peel the thick skin. You may also want to scoop out the seeds. This keeps the salad from getting too watery.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely, kids usually love the crunch! Just leave out the chili oil to keep it mild. The sweet and savory dressing is always a hit with little ones.

I hope this refreshing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad brings joy to your table. It is the perfect way to stay cool during warm summer months. Give it a try and enjoy every crisp bite!

— Lidia