This crunchy cucumber salad is light and refreshing, perfect for a sunny day! Tossed with sesame oil and vinegar, it’s bursting with flavor and makes a great side dish.
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, who doesn’t love a crispy bite? 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Japanese or Persian cucumbers are ideal since they have thinner skins and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, try English cucumbers. Regular cucumbers work too, but they may need peeling.
Salt: The salt is crucial as it helps draw out moisture from the cucumbers, making them crunchier. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use a low-sodium salt or even skip this step and rely on the dressing.
Rice Vinegar: This gives a nice tangy flavor. If you’re out, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be substituted, but they may alter the taste slightly.
Soy Sauce: Choose low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option. Tamari also works for a gluten-free alternative.
Sesame Oil: This adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, olive oil can substitute, though the taste will change.
How Do You Ensure Your Cucumbers Stay Crunchy?
To keep cucumbers crunchy, salting is key! It pulls out extra moisture, preventing your salad from becoming soggy.
- After salting, let the cucumbers sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the liquid and gently pat them dry with paper towels.
- You can also serve the salad promptly or chill it for 30 minutes to let flavors meld without losing that refreshing crunch.
Using fresh ingredients also contributes to a better texture and flavor. Enjoy your refreshing and crisp salad! 🥒
Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers (preferably Japanese or Persian cucumbers)
- 1 tablespoon salt
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to rest and draw out moisture from the cucumbers. If you choose to chill it in the refrigerator before serving, you can add another 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl. This will make the cucumbers easier to toss with the dressing later.
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Sprinkle the salt evenly over the cucumber slices and toss them gently to coat all pieces. Allow them to sit for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess moisture, keeping your salad crunchy.
3. Drain and Pat Dry:
After the cucumbers have rested, you’ll notice some liquid has formed at the bottom of the bowl. Drain this off and give the cucumbers a light pat with paper towels to remove any extra water.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and red chili flakes. Mix well until the sugar dissolves, and the dressing is combined.
5. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss everything together until the cucumber slices are well-coated with the dressing.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. Give the salad a light toss to mix the toppings in.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad right away for a crunchy experience or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This salad is fantastic as a side dish with grilled meats, rice bowls, or noodles.
So delicious and refreshing! Enjoy every bite! 🥒✨
FAQ for Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While Japanese or Persian cucumbers are recommended for their crispness and thin skins, English cucumbers or regular cucumbers can be used as substitutes. Just peel regular cucumbers if they have thick skin.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavor will continue to develop, but the cucumbers may soften slightly. To maintain crunch, it’s best to consume it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance! Simply cut the cucumbers and mix the dressing, but do not combine them until you’re ready to serve. This way, the cucumbers will stay crunchy. Assemble it about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be good alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
