Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Brighten up your meal with this refreshing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad. Crisp cucumbers are tossed in a zesty dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil, creating a perfect side dish that pairs beautifully with any Asian-inspired meal. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy healthy eating.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-12T04:05:59.058Z

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make.

A Refreshing Side Dish

The Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. With its bright flavors and crisp texture, this salad enhances your dining experience, making it a preferred side for warm summer evenings or intimate gatherings. It pairs exquisitely with grilled meats, fried rice, or noodle dishes, bringing balance and vibrancy to your table.

Not only is this salad simple to prepare, but it also caters to various dietary preferences. It is naturally vegan and gluten-free, which means it can be enjoyed by a wide range of guests. By incorporating fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing, it effortlessly brings an element of healthiness to your plate while still satisfying your cravings for bold tastes.

Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not just refreshing; they are also packed with nutrients. They are low in calories yet high in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, which supports bone health, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. The high water content in cucumbers keeps you hydrated, making them an excellent choice, especially in warmer weather. With each bite, you are not just enjoying a delicious salad but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

Additionally, the antioxidants found in cucumbers can help reduce inflammation and promote overall skin health. This makes the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad not only a tasty accompaniment to your meals but also a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Customizing Your Salad

While the recipe provides a fantastic base, feel free to customize your salad to suit your taste preferences. You might want to incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even radishes for extra crunch and flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili oil can elevate the dish to new spicy heights, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

If you’re looking to make this salad a complete meal, consider adding protein sources. Diced tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp can transform this refreshing salad into a hearty dish. Such modifications not only diversify the flavors but also ensure a balanced meal packed with essential nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this refreshing salad.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced

Once you have all your ingredients prepped, you're ready to mix them together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad.

Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Toss

Add cucumbers to the dressing, and toss until all pieces are coated.

Garnish

Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing salad!

Storage Tips

To keep your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad fresh, it's best to consume it soon after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The cucumbers may release some water, which can slightly dilute the dressing, but a quick toss before serving can revitalize the flavors.

If you wish to prepare the salad in advance, consider storing the dressing separately from the cucumbers. This will prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy and maintain their crisp texture until you're ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes for an excellent side dish to accompany a variety of Asian-inspired entrees. Whether you are serving teriyaki chicken, sushi, or a hearty bowl of ramen, the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad serves as a refreshing palate cleanser. Its lightness contrasts well with the richer flavors of the main dishes, ensuring a balanced meal.

For a more casual setting, consider serving the salad in small individual bowls or cups during gatherings or picnics. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy a refreshing bite alongside their favorite Asian dishes, encouraging them to explore not just the salad but also the myriad of flavors it complements.

Pairing Beverages

When serving the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad, choosing the right beverage can enhance the dining experience significantly. Light and crisp drinks like green tea or sparkling water with a citrus twist complement the salad perfectly, allowing its flavors to shine without overpowering them. These drinks not only offer refreshment but also align with the fresh ethos of the meal.

For those seeking an adult beverage, a chilled white wine or a light lager can be fantastic pairings. Look for options that have bright fruit notes to match the salad's zesty profile, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the entire meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. However, it's best served fresh.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, teriyaki tofu, or any Asian-inspired dish.