Asian Cucumber Salad
This refreshing Asian cucumber salad features crisp, lightly scored cucumbers tossed in a savory-sweet dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it makes a perfect side dish or light appetizer.
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 77kcal
Cost: $
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl For whisking the dressing
- 1 Fork For scoring the cucumber skin
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs English cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the dressing:
For garnish:
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 stalks green onions sliced
Instructions
- Run the tines of a fork down the length of each cucumber to lightly score the skin. This helps the dressing adhere better. Slice the cucumbers thin, about one-eighth inch thick.1 1/2 lbs English cucumbers
- Place the cucumbers in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture and keeps the salad crisp.1 1/2 lbs English cucumbers, 1 teaspoon salt
- While the cucumbers rest, prepare the dressing. Combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic in a bowl. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, 3 cloves garlic
- Pour the liquid extracted from the cucumbers out of the bowl. Pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.1 1/2 lbs English cucumbers
- Finish by adding green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and chili oil. Serve chilled.1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds, 2 stalks green onions, 1 1/2 teaspoons chili oil
Video
Notes
Cucumber variety – English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. Persian cucumbers are also a great substitute.
Spice level – Adjust the chili oil to your preference. For a milder version, reduce to 1 teaspoon or omit entirely.
Make ahead – You can prepare and salt the cucumbers up to 2 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
Serving suggestion – This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, dumplings, or as part of an Asian-inspired meal spread.
Nutrition
Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 1089mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 239IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 1mg