Cucumber Salad

This Filipino cucumber salad features paper-thin slices dressed in a tangy vinegar mixture with fresh ginger. Also known as pipino salad, it is the perfect cool and refreshing side for fried fish and grilled meats.

Prep Time15

Cook Time0

Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian, Filipino, Pacific

Keyword: cucumber salad, healthy, quick, refreshing, vinegar-based

Servings: people

Calories: 24kcal

Author: Vanjo Merano

Cost: $

Equipment

1 Mandoline or vegetable peeler For achieving paper-thin cucumber slices
1 Mixing bowl Glass or stainless steel preferred

Ingredients

2 pieces cucumber English or Persian preferred
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 piece red onion thinly sliced
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced (optional)
6 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Wash the cucumber thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Using a mandoline, vegetable peeler, or sharp knife, slice the cucumber crosswise into paper-thin rounds. Leave the skin on for color or peel if preferred.
2 pieces cucumber
In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, ground black pepper, sugar, minced ginger, and vinegar. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves completely.
1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, 6 tablespoons white vinegar
Add the sliced cucumber and red onion to the dressing. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
2 pieces cucumber, 1 piece red onion
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumber to absorb the dressing.
Stir gently before transferring to a serving dish. Drain any excess liquid if the salad looks too watery. Serve cold.

Video

Notes

Scoring technique – Run fork tines lengthwise down the cucumber before slicing to create grooves that help the dressing cling better.

Double batch – This recipe scales easily for gatherings. Double all ingredients and use a larger bowl to ensure even coating.

Serving temperature – For the best experience, place the serving bowl over a bed of ice during buffets to keep the salad extra cold.

Vinegar options – Datu Puti cane vinegar or Marca Piña work beautifully for a more traditional Filipino flavor profile.

Quick version – Short on time? Chill for 30 minutes minimum. The salad will still taste good but the cucumber will be crunchier and less pickled.

Nutrition