Description

This Asian Cucumber Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavors. The crisp cucumbers are paired with a tangy sesame dressing that’s balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. It’s the perfect side dish for summer barbecues, as a starter, or even as a healthy snack. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and full of satisfying textures!

Ingredients

Scale

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably English cucumbers, but regular cucumbers work too)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, if desired)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1 teaspoon chili flakes or red pepper (optional, for spice)

For the Dressing:

2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt & pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the cucumbers thinly using a knife or mandolin for an even texture.
Thinly slice the red onion. If you want a less intense onion flavor, you can soak the slices in water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), grated ginger, and minced garlic.
Taste the dressing and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional honey/sugar if you prefer more sweetness.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber and red onion slices.
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat everything evenly.
Let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro over the salad.
Add chili flakes for extra spice, if desired.

Notes

✔ Use English Cucumbers – These cucumbers have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for salads.
✔ Don’t Over-Salt – The soy sauce already adds saltiness, so be cautious when seasoning the dressing.
✔ Chill Before Serving – For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving.
✔ Customize – You can add other vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, or even toss in some crispy wonton strips for crunch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes (optional)
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired