Crisp cucumbers meet a bold, zesty dressing in this Asian Cucumber Salad — a refreshing side dish that’s quick to make, healthy, and full of flavor. With a perfect balance of heat, acidity, and crunch, this salad pairs beautifully with any main course or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
This recipe features crunchy sliced cucumbers tossed in a spicy sesame soy dressing infused with garlic, chili, and rice vinegar. It’s ideal for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a simple weeknight side that feels restaurant-quality.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 10 minutes — no cooking required
- Healthy, low-carb, and naturally vegan
- Perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory
- Pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or rice bowls
- Ideal for meal prep — stays crisp for days
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1½ tsp salt (for sweating the cucumbers)
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp chili oil (adjust for spice preference)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
1 green onion, finely sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice cucumbers thinly and place in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess water.
- Rinse and pat dry the cucumbers with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil, honey, and garlic.
- Toss cucumbers in the dressing until evenly coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Chill for 15 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & FAQs
How do I make it milder? Reduce or omit the chili oil for a gentler spice level.
Can I add protein? Yes — toss with edamame, tofu, or shredded chicken for a fuller meal.
How long does it last? Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Nutrition Summary
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 85 | 2g | 6g | 5g | 1g | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
