Asian Cucumber Salad

Refresh your palate with this light and tangy Asian Cucumber Salad. This simple dish features crisp cucumber slices tossed in a zesty dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, offering a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch. Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work well)
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
   • Wash the cucumbers and slice them thinly. If using English or Persian cucumbers, you can leave the skin on; for other varieties, you may want to peel them. You can also cut the cucumbers into half-moons if preferred.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
   • Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss well to ensure all slices are coated with the dressing.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
   • Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salad. Toss again to mix.
   • For extra freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Serve:
   • Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy as a side dish or a light snack.

How to Prepare

This Asian Cucumber Salad is incredibly simple to make and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The rice vinegar provides a tangy base, while sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma. The cucumbers absorb the dressing beautifully, making each bite refreshing and flavorful. It’s an excellent side dish to pair with grilled meats, stir-fries, or any Asian-inspired meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Chill time: 10 minutes (optional)
• Total time: 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. The cucumbers may release some water, so you might need to drain off excess liquid before serving.
2. What kind of cucumbers work best for this salad?
   • English or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. However, regular cucumbers work well too—just peel and deseed if desired.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
   • Absolutely! Thinly sliced radishes, carrots, or bell peppers would make great additions for extra crunch and color.
4. How can I make this salad spicier?
   • Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add thinly sliced fresh chili peppers for a kick of heat.
5. What can I serve with this salad?
   • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or alongside Asian-inspired dishes like fried rice, noodles, or dumplings.