Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Refresh your palate with this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad, a delightful dish that perfectly balances the crispness of cucumbers with a zesty dressing. This simple yet flavorful salad is ideal for summer gatherings or as a light side to accompany any meal. Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a crunchy, healthy option to their menu.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-11-23T14:09:00.424Z

This refreshing cucumber salad is perfect for warm days and packed with flavor.

A Refreshing Take on Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salads are a staple in many cuisines, but this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad takes it to a whole new level. The addition of vibrant flavor enhancers like rice vinegar and sesame oil creates an intriguing blend that invigorates your taste buds. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, making it impossible to resist. This salad not only delights your palate but also serves as a visually appealing dish that can brighten any table setting.

As the weather warms up, light and refreshing meals become particularly appealing. This salad provides a quick and easy way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your diet without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a salad that is both nutritious and delicious, making it a perfect option for a busy lifestyle.

Perfect Pairings for Any Meal

One of the great aspects of this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is its versatility. It can be served as a light appetizer, paired with grilled meats, or enjoyed alongside rice dishes for a complete meal. The zesty dressing complements a variety of flavors, making it a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. Your guests will appreciate the refreshing contrast it provides against richer entrée options.

Moreover, this salad can also be a delightful palate cleanser between courses. The crispness of the cucumbers infused with the bold flavors of the dressing creates a perfect balance that enhances your dining experience. This combination is not just healthy but adds an exciting twist to traditional meal pairings.

Nutritional Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are an underappreciated vegetable, packed with nutrients and benefits. They are low in calories but high in water content, making them a great choice for hydration, especially during hot days. Rich in vitamins K and C, cucumbers can also contribute to healthy skin and provide antioxidants that combat free radicals in your body.

In addition to their health benefits, cucumbers can help with digestion. Their fiber content aids in maintaining a healthy digestive tract, making this salad not just a flavorful option but also a beneficial choice for your gut health. Incorporating such fresh produce into your meals is a simple way to elevate your overall well-being.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious salad.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped

Enjoy your fresh ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your salad.

Prepare the Cucumbers

Slice cucumbers thinly and place them in a mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic.

Combine & Serve

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, add sesame seeds and green onions, and toss well before serving.

Your salad is ready to be served!

Making It Your Own

One of the best aspects of the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is its flexibility. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. For a bit of heat, you can add sliced chili peppers or a splash of sriracha to the dressing. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, consider adding a few strips of mango or some shredded carrots — these additions can enhance both the flavor and presentation.

You might also want to explore different garnish options. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can provide a bright contrast to the cucumbers while adding a layer of complexity to the flavor. Customizing this salad allows you to create a unique dish that reflects your culinary style.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful cucumber salad, worry not! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, due to its high water content, cucumbers can become soggy over time. To maintain its crispness, consider storing the salad and dressing separately until you're ready to enjoy it again.

When storing, ensure you cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the flavors, ensuring that each bite is as fresh as when it was first made.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad in a beautiful bowl to highlight its vibrant colors and textures. For a more casual setting, individual servings in small glasses can be a fun way to present the dish at gatherings. Pair it with grilled skewers or sushi rolls for a delightful Asian-inspired meal that will impress your guests.

Additionally, consider offering this salad as part of a larger spread that includes other refreshing sides, such as a watermelon salad or edamame. This not only adds variety to your meal but also creates an inviting atmosphere filled with diverse flavors that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance and toss them just before serving.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free soy sauce.