Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Refreshingly crisp and full of flavor, this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:55:47.997Z

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors. The combination of fresh cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar creates a delightful dish that complements any Asian-inspired meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing with every bite
Bright flavors that enhance any meal
Super quick to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

The Perfect Side Dish

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is not just refreshing; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats, Asian-inspired dishes, or even a simple sandwich, its crisp texture and bright flavors provide a delightful contrast. The salad is light enough to not overwhelm your main course while still offering a satisfying crunch.

Cucumbers are known for their high water content, making this salad an excellent choice for hot summer days or any time you want to enjoy something light and refreshing. The combination of rice vinegar and soy sauce adds a tangy depth, while sesame oil provides a rich, nutty finish. Together, these elements create a harmonious dish that elevates your dining experience.

Customizable and Fun

One of the best aspects of this salad is its flexibility. Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Want a bit of crunch? Add shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers. Prefer more spice? Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash more of chili flakes. The options are endless, making it a fun dish to experiment with.

Moreover, this salad can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare it a few hours before your meal, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. This makes it a great choice for potlucks, barbecues, or meal prep!

Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are low in calories yet high in essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, which is important for bone health. Additionally, cucumbers are a great source of hydration due to their high water content, making them a wonderful choice for maintaining hydration, especially in warmer months.

Furthermore, cucumbers contain antioxidants and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body. Incorporating this salad into your diet can support overall health while providing a refreshing and tasty addition to your meals. So not only does it taste great, but it also contributes to your wellness!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your salad:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Mix all the ingredients together for a delicious salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly. Place them in a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, and toss gently to combine. Add green onions and sesame seeds, then mix again.

Serve

Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in the fridge for up to a day.

Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad

To achieve the best texture, choose firm cucumbers. English cucumbers are particularly great for this salad as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which means less preparation work and a tender bite. If you opt for regular cucumbers, consider peeling them for a smoother texture.

For an extra burst of flavor, let the salad marinate for a bit longer before serving. The longer the cucumbers sit in the dressing, the more they absorb those delicious flavors. Just be cautious of leaving them too long, as cucumbers can become soggy if they sit in the dressing for too long.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with various dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, teriyaki salmon, or even as a topping for rice bowls. It also complements spicy dishes, balancing heat with its cool, refreshing taste.

For an elegant presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl garnished with additional sesame seeds and green onions. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites your guests to dig in. Pair it with a chilled beverage for a complete summer dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute, but the flavor will vary slightly.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce.

→ How can I add protein to this salad?

You can add cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a protein boost.