Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing asian cucumber salad! It’s the perfect companion for those hot summer days when you just want something light and full of flavor. I whip this up for barbecues, picnics, and even cozy gatherings with friends. The crunch of the cucumbers paired with that zesty dressing is simply irresistible! I love how versatile this salad is; you can serve it as a side to grilled meats or enjoy it on its own as a vegan delight. Plus, it comes together in no time! Just think about the vibrant colors and the burst of flavors that will brighten up your table. Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll become your go-to dish for any occasion!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients for the most refreshing asian cucumber salad you’ve ever tasted!

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt (to draw out moisture)
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (for that tangy kick)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for a savory depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds a nutty aroma)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for a delightful crunch)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for a fresh garnish)
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional, if you like a bit of heat)

(Remember, high-quality ingredients elevate this salad from good to great, so choose fresh, crisp cucumbers and flavorful condiments!)

How to Prepare Instructions

Ready to whip up the most delicious asian cucumber salad? Let’s dive right into it! This section will guide you step by step, so you’ll be a cucumber salad pro in no time.

Preparing the Cucumbers

First things first, let’s talk about those cucumbers! Salting them is crucial—it’s the secret to getting that perfect crunch. Start by slicing your cucumbers thinly; I like them about a quarter-inch thick. The thinner, the better, as they’ll soak up the dressing beautifully. Once sliced, place them in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This not only draws out excess moisture but also intensifies their flavor. After the time’s up, give them a good rinse under cold water to remove the salt, then pat them dry with a towel. This little step ensures your salad won’t turn watery!

Creating the Dressing

Now, let’s make that zingy dressing that brings everything together! In a separate bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk it all together until the sugar is completely dissolved—this is key! If the sugar doesn’t dissolve, it’ll leave a gritty texture in your salad, and we definitely don’t want that. The rice vinegar adds the perfect tang, while the soy sauce brings depth and richness. Trust me, this dressing is what makes the cucumbers shine!

Combining Ingredients

Once you have your cucumbers and dressing ready, it’s time to combine them! Toss the cucumbers in the bowl with your dressing, making sure every slice is coated evenly. I like to use my hands for this—it’s a bit messy but oh-so-satisfying! Now, for that final touch, garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and those fiery chili slices if you’re feeling adventurous. Not only does this add flavor, but it makes for a gorgeous presentation. Serve your salad chilled or at room temperature, and watch it disappear in no time!

Nutritional Information

This asian cucumber salad is not only delicious but also light and healthy! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 80
• Fat: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 1g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but overall, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal!

Tips for Success

To make sure your asian cucumber salad turns out amazing every time, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, always choose fresh, firm cucumbers—English cucumbers are my go-to for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. If you’re using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them for a smoother bite. When salting, don’t skip the resting time; it’s essential for that delightful crunch! Also, feel free to play around with the dressing—add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist or a hint of grated ginger for an extra kick. Serve the salad in a beautiful bowl and sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top for a stunning finish. And trust me, letting it sit for just a few minutes before serving allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Variations

The beauty of the asian cucumber salad is its versatility! You can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. For a colorful twist, try adding thinly sliced bell peppers or crunchy carrots—both add a delightful crunch and vibrant color. If you’re a fan of herbs, toss in some fresh cilantro or mint for an aromatic lift. Want to make it a heartier dish? Add shredded chicken, tofu, or even shrimp for a protein boost. You can also play around with the dressing; add a splash of lime juice for brightness or a dash of chili oil for some heat. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make this salad your own! Trust me, every variation is a delicious adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your asian cucumber salad fresh and crisp, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed fresh! If you find it’s gotten a bit watery from the cucumbers releasing moisture, simply give it a gentle toss before serving. No need to reheat—this salad is best served chilled or at room temperature!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Refreshing and light, making it an ideal summer side dish.
• Healthy ingredients packed with flavor and crunch.
• Versatile enough to pair with any meal or stand alone as a snack.
• Customizable to fit your taste and dietary preferences.

Once you try this asian cucumber salad, it’ll be hard to resist making it again and again!

For more delicious salad ideas, check out healthy vegetable side dishes or easy cucumber appetizers!

Asian Cucumber Salad: 7 Simple Steps to Refreshing Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A refreshing Asian cucumber salad that combines crunch and flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)

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Instructions

1. Place sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out water.
2. Rinse cucumbers under cold water and pat dry with a towel.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves.
4. Add cucumbers to the dressing and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and chili slices if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• For added crunch, use a mandoline slicer for uniform cucumber slices.
• Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: asian cucumber salad, cucumber salad, vegan salad