why make this recipe
This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a great dish for anyone looking for a light and refreshing side. It is quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. This salad not only adds color to your meal but also a burst of flavor that counters heavier dishes. It’s perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a part of a larger Asian-inspired menu.
how to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Directions
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle until you have several slices. They should look more oval than round, and the thickness is up to your preference.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and refrigerate the cucumbers for at least 20 minutes. This will help to draw out their water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water from the cucumbers and give them a quick rinse for about 10 seconds before returning them to the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic (if using).
- Stir until everything is well combined and serve immediately. Enjoy!
how to serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
You can serve this salad as a side dish with any Asian meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, noodles, or rice dishes. For added garnish, you can sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top before serving.
how to store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to eat it within two days for the freshest taste. The cucumbers may become softer over time, but the flavors will still be delightful.
tips to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Adjust the sugar to your taste. You might prefer it sweeter or more savory, so taste and modify as needed.
- Feel free to experiment with the amount of chili oil to control the spiciness.
- If you want a bit of crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or carrots along with the cucumbers.
variation
You can also make this salad with different types of cucumbers, like English cucumbers or even add other vegetables like bell peppers. Some people like to include fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. Just peel them if the skin is tough and slice them into similar sizes.
2. How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
Ideally, eat it within two days. The cucumbers will lose their crispness after that.
3. Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is already vegan as it doesn’t contain any meat or dairy products. Just make sure the soy sauce is plant-based, which most are.