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The Ultimate Easy & Tangy Asian Cucumber Salad (15 Minute Prep)

A white bowl filled with glistening, sliced asian cucumber salad tossed in a savory dressing and topped with sesame seeds.
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Make this crisp, refreshing Asian cucumber salad with a tangy, savory dressing. It is quick to prepare and perfect as a light side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large English or Persian cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili oil or red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers well. Slice them thinly or use a vegetable peeler to create ribbons. If using thick cucumbers, you may want to lightly salt the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water, then gently pat them dry.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and chili oil or red pepper flakes. Taste the dressing and adjust sweetness or spice as needed. This is your tangy cucumber salad dressing base.
  3. Place the prepared cucumbers in a medium bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers.
  4. Toss gently to coat all the cucumber pieces evenly with the dressing.
  5. Let the salad marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill for 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad. Serve cold as a refreshing Asian side dish.

Notes

  • For an extra crunchy texture, consider using the smashed cucumber salad technique by lightly smashing the cucumbers with the flat side of a knife before slicing.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • This salad works well for meal prep; the cucumbers stay crisp for up to two days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/asian-cucumber-salad-easy-tangy-recipe/