Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 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 red pepper flakes; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and quick dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. It's perfect as a side dish or light appetizer.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:54:33.258Z

This salad combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tangy and sweet dressing, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing texture that brightens up any meal
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes

      

A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is not just visually appealing with its vibrant colors but also delivers a delightful crunch with every bite. The thinly sliced cucumbers create a refreshing base, while the combination of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil adds a savory depth. The sweet hint of sugar balances the acidity, making this salad a harmonious blend of flavors that can elevate any meal.

The addition of red pepper flakes introduces just the right amount of heat without overpowering the freshness of the cucumbers. This salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a weeknight dinner, or simply looking for a quick and healthy snack, this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad fits the bill. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of cuisines, from grilled meats to Asian-inspired dishes. You can serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light appetizer that will impress your guests.

Additionally, this dish is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it an even more delicious option for quick lunches or snacks.

Nutritional Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. They are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those watching their weight. With high water content, cucumbers help keep you hydrated, especially during warmer months. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and potassium.

In addition to being nutritious, cucumbers contain antioxidants that may help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Including this salad in your diet is a simple yet effective way to boost your overall health while enjoying a delicious dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your salad:

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 red pepper flakes
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Mix everything together for a delicious and healthy salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Cucumbers

Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top.

Serve

Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad!

Tips for Customization

One of the best aspects of this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences. You can add thinly sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch. For protein, consider tossing in some shredded chicken or tofu, making it a more filling dish.

If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of honey. Alternatively, for those who enjoy more heat, additional red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil can enhance the spiciness. The possibilities are endless!

Storage and Freshness

To maintain the crispness of the cucumbers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a few days, but the flavors will continue to develop as it sits. If you plan to keep it for more than a day, consider adding the green onions and sesame seeds just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

If you notice excess liquid pooling at the bottom of your container, simply drain it before serving. This will help keep the salad fresh and enjoyable, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first.

Pairing Suggestions

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken thighs, beef stir-fry, or sesame-crusted fish. Its light and refreshing nature contrasts wonderfully with richer main courses, making it an ideal complement.

For a vegetarian option, try it with steamed dumplings or vegetable sushi rolls. The crispness of the salad can enhance the overall dining experience, providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of heavier foods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as substitutes for rice vinegar.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, and radishes would all make great additions.