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Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Looking for a crisp, cool, and flavorful side dish? This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers, a tangy-sweet soy and rice vinegar dressing, and a hint of spice, this refreshing salad is perfect alongside your favorite Asian-inspired meals—or all on its own!

It’s light, crunchy, and ready in under 10 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, summer barbecues, or anytime you need a vibrant, healthy side.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • Light & Refreshing – Cool cucumbers, bold dressing, and zesty seasoning.
  • Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and done in 10 minutes!
  • Versatile Side – Pairs well with grilled meats, stir-fry, sushi, or noodles.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling.
  • Customizable – Easily adjust spice level or add toppings to fit your taste.

🥒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work best)
  • 1 tsp salt (for drawing out moisture)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey (or sugar for a vegan version)
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

  • Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers (around 2mm thick).
  • Toss the slices with salt and let them sit in a bowl for 5–10 minutes to release excess water.
  • Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

  • Combine the cucumbers with the dressing in a large bowl and toss until evenly coated.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
  • Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

  • Use Thin-Skinned Cucumbers – English or Persian cucumbers are ideal.
  • Slice Thinly – Thin slices absorb the dressing more effectively.
  • Let It Chill – Marinate for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
  • Dial the Spice Up or Down – Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
  • Crunchy Toppings – Add chopped peanuts or crispy shallots for texture.

🥗 Fun Variations

  • Spicy Korean Style – Add ½ tsp gochugaru for a deeper chili flavor.
  • Add Crunch – Toss in shredded carrots or thinly sliced radishes.
  • Creamy Upgrade – Mix in diced avocado.
  • Make It a Meal – Top with grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken.

🧊 Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. The flavors deepen over time, but the cucumbers may soften slightly.

🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 60
  • Carbs: 6g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the kind of quick, crisp, and flavorful recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re serving it with grilled teriyaki chicken, sushi rolls, or just eating it out of the bowl with chopsticks—it’s a win!