Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that's perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish. The crisp cucumbers combined with a tangy dressing make for a delightful palate cleanser.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:24:33.314Z

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad brings a burst of flavor to your table with minimal effort. The combination of fresh cucumbers and a zesty dressing makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp and refreshing flavors that awaken your taste buds
Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy days
Versatile dish that pairs well with many Asian-inspired meals

      

A Refreshing Summer Dish

When the temperatures rise, there's nothing quite like a chilled salad to cool you down. This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly light, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days. The crisp cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch, while the vibrant colors of red onion and cilantro bring visual appeal that makes this dish a feast for the eyes.

Incorporating fresh vegetables into your meals is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them an ideal ingredient for weight management. With this salad, you can enjoy a delicious side dish without the guilt, ensuring that you stay healthy while indulging in delightful flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Whether you're grilling up some teriyaki chicken or serving dumplings, this salad pairs beautifully with many Asian-inspired meals. Its tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor that elevates any main course, making it a fantastic addition to your dining table.

Furthermore, this salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. It can be made ahead of time and served chilled, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without the last-minute rush. Your guests will appreciate the refreshing taste, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this salad is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients based on your preferences. Consider adding sliced bell peppers for extra color, or toss in some radishes for an additional crunch. You can even include chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for a nutty flavor profile that enhances the dish's Asian flair.

If you're looking to spice things up, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha can introduce a delightful heat to the dressing. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to create a version that suits your palate perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad can be served as a standalone dish or as a refreshing side. Pair it with grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, for a complete meal. It also complements rice dishes beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to tender grains. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own or alongside a bowl of miso soup.

For an elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls and garnish with extra cilantro or sesame seeds. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easy for guests to help themselves during gatherings.

Storage Tips

If you're making this salad ahead of time, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last up to three days, but it's recommended to consume it within the first day for optimal freshness. As the cucumbers release moisture, the salad may become a bit watery, so give it a good toss before serving.

To maintain the crunch of the cucumbers, consider storing the dressing separately. Just mix the dressing with the salad right before serving to keep everything crisp and flavorful.

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are not just refreshing; they are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of hydration, containing about 95% water. This makes them a fantastic choice for maintaining hydration, especially during the warmer months. Additionally, cucumbers are low in calories and high in fiber, promoting digestive health.

The dressing ingredients also contribute health benefits. Rice vinegar can help regulate blood sugar levels, while sesame oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Together, these components make this salad not only delicious but also a nourishing option for your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute, but the flavor may vary slightly.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this salad can be made gluten-free.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the cucumbers may lose their crunch.