This refreshing Asian cucumber salad is light and crunchy, packed with fresh veggies. The tangy dressing adds a zesty twist that makes it even tastier!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up! It’s the perfect side dish for any meal, or just enjoy it on its own. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Kirby or Persian cucumbers are crispy and perfect for this salad. If you can’t find them, English cucumbers work well too. Just remove the seeds for less moisture.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tanginess. If unavailable, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Sesame Oil: It gives a rich, nutty flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can use olive oil, but the flavor will be different.
Honey or Sugar: Use honey for a natural sweetness, but feel free to swap it for agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option!
Chili Flakes: Adjust the spice to your liking! If you prefer milder flavors, skip them or use less. Fresh bell peppers can also add color without the heat.
How Do I Get Crunchy Cucumbers for My Salad?
To keep cucumbers crispy, salt them before mixing. This draws out excess water and enhances their crunch. Here’s how:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and sprinkle with salt.
- Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then drain any liquid that collects.
- Gently squeeze them to remove additional moisture before dressing.
This process ensures your salad stays refreshing and doesn’t get soggy! 🍽️
Easy Asian Cucumber Salad with Tangy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (preferably Kirby or Persian cucumbers)
- 1 tsp salt
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp chili flakes or 1 small fresh red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Optional: 1 scallion, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 15-30 minutes to chill. The chilling time helps to enhance the flavors, but you can enjoy it right away if you’re in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers. Slice them into thin rounds to ensure a nice crunch. If you’d like, you can peel stripes off the cucumber for a pretty presentation.
2. Draw Out Water:
Place the sliced cucumbers into a bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Toss the slices gently to coat them in salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process pulls out excess moisture, keeping your salad crisp!
3. Make the Tangy Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes or fresh chili. This will create a flavorful dressing.
4. Remove Excess Moisture:
After 10 minutes, you’ll notice some water at the bottom of the bowl. Drain it off and gently squeeze the cucumber slices with your hands to remove any remaining moisture.
5. Combine and Toss:
Add the cucumber slices back to the bowl. Pour the delicious dressing over the cucumbers and toss everything together until the slices are well coated.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top, and if you’re using scallions, add those too for some extra crunch and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salad immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes for the flavors to marry together. Either way, it’s refreshing and delicious!
Enjoy your fresh and tangy Asian cucumber salad! 🌟
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of Kirby or Persian?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers! Just be sure to peel them to make them less bitter, and consider removing the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
How Spicy Will the Salad be With Chili Flakes?
The spiciness depends on the amount of chili flakes or fresh chili you use. Start with a small amount and taste the dressing before adding more. You can always adjust to your desired heat level!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften over time, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! The salad is already vegan-friendly by using honey alternatives like maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey. Just ensure your soy sauce is vegan as well.
