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Cucumber Salad Recipe

Crisp Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

Cool, crunchy, and packed with bold flavor, this crisp Asian cucumber salad recipe gives you a refreshing side that cuts through rich meals beautifully. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how effortlessly it elevates everyday dishes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 Serving
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fresh Base
  • 3 medium cucumbers (thinly sliced, preferably English or Persian)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)
Flavorful Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a natural option)
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional, for heat)
Aromatics & Garnish
  • 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions (thinly sliced)

Method
 

  1. Slice cucumbers thinly and salt them, allowing them to sit for 10 minutes so excess moisture is released and the texture remains crisp.
  2. Whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili oil until the dressing becomes smooth and well combined.
  3. Add finely minced garlic and grated ginger into the dressing, ensuring they are evenly incorporated for consistent flavor.
  4. Drain the cucumbers thoroughly and toss them gently with the dressing so each slice is evenly coated.
  5. Let the salad rest briefly so the cucumbers absorb the dressing without losing their crunch.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Always salt and drain cucumbers properly to avoid excess water diluting your dressing and weakening the overall flavor.
  • Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin cucumber slices, which helps the dressing coat each piece more effectively.
  • Toast sesame seeds lightly before adding them to enhance their nutty aroma and improve the overall taste of the salad.
  • Adjust the chili oil gradually if you prefer mild heat, as it is easier to add more later than to fix an overly spicy dish.