How to Make Crisp Asian Cucumber Salad in 10 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a refreshing dish that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor? I’m excited to share my Crisp Asian Cucumber Salad recipe with you! In just 10 minutes, you can create a delightful salad that’s perfect for those busy weeknight dinners or as a vibrant side for your favorite Asian dishes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Refreshing and light, ideal for warm weather or as a side dish.
• Versatile enough to pair with various proteins or serve as a standalone appetizer salad.
• Uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
• Great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Asian Cucumber Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsps rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
• 2 tbsps green onions, thinly sliced

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s get started on this Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe! Follow these simple steps:

1. Cucumber Preparation: Slice cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds or half-moons using a sharp knife, creating delicate, translucent pieces.
2. Moisture Extraction: Sprinkle salt over cucumber slices and let them drain in a colander for 10 minutes, drawing out excess water to enhance crispness.
3. Dressing Creation: Whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes together, creating a harmonious blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.
4. Salad Assembly: Rinse and pat cucumber slices dry, then transfer to a mixing bowl. Pour the vibrant dressing over the cucumbers, gently tossing to ensure complete coating.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. Enjoy immediately for maximum crispness, or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Crisp Asian Cucumber Salad turns out perfectly:

• For extra crunch, consider adding other different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
• If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the dressing.
• Make sure to let the cucumbers sit with salt long enough to draw out moisture; this step is key for achieving that crisp texture.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or honey according to your taste.
• This salad pairs beautifully with Chinese Beef Broccoli or Beef Stir Fry for a complete meal!

How to Serve

This Asian Cucumber Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• Pair it with creamy garlic pasta for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Use it as a topping for tacos or wraps for an added crunch.
• Enjoy it as a light lunch on its own or with a side of rice.
• It also makes a fantastic appetizer salad for gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Make the salad a few hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully!
• For best results, consume within 2-3 days to enjoy the crispness of the cucumbers.
• If you’re preparing it for a party, consider making a double batch to ensure everyone gets a taste!

So there you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious Asian Cucumber Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners or a vibrant side for your favorite Asian dishes, this salad is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe as much as I do!