Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 5 Persian cucumbers; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil; 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce; 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste); 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp chili oil; 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds; 1/2 tbsp minced garlic (optional)

By: John.Morgan35 | Published onFebruary 17, 2026

Bowl of easy Asian cucumber salad with fresh vegetables and dressing

Light And Fresh Meals

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If you’re seeking a delightful, refreshing dish to brighten up your meals, look no further than this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad. Crisp Persian cucumbers come together with savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors to create a salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a casual weekday dinner, hosting a family barbecue, or simply craving something light, this salad stands out as a quick yet impressive option. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you might find yourself whipping it up on repeat!

What makes this recipe special

You’ll adore this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad for several compelling reasons. First, it’s not just quick and easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. The balance of flavors—salty, sweet, and a touch of heat—offers a delightful contrast to heavier dishes. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side to grilled meats, this dish is versatile and universally appealing.

“Every time I make this salad, I’m reminded of summer gatherings with friends. It’s light, fresh, and so easy to share!”

Preparing Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Creating this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a breeze. With just a few steps, you will have a beautifully plated dish that looks as good as it tastes. First, you’ll prep your cucumbers to enhance their crunchy texture. After that, the magic really happens when you mix in the savory sauce. It’s all about melding the flavors together for that perfect bite!

Gather these items

For this recipe, you’ll need:

5 Persian cucumbers
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tbsp sesame oil
3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
1/2-1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp chili oil
1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
1/2 tbsp minced garlic (optional)

Feel free to get creative with the sugar amount to suit your taste; this makes a difference in balancing the salad’s flavors.

Directions to follow

Start by rinsing and slicing one end of the cucumber at an angle.
Continue slicing at the same angle until you’ve cut up the entire cucumber. Aim for more oval slices rather than round ones.
Place the slices into a bowl or container and sprinkle them with 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix well and put them in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the salt to draw out the water.
After 20 minutes, drain off the water accumulated in the bowl and give the cucumbers a quick rinse (about 10 seconds).
Return the cucumbers to the bowl and add in the sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
Stir until everything is well combined, and then serve immediately. Enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad, consider a few creative plating ideas. A simple presentation in a clear glass bowl allows the vibrant colors to shine. Pair this salad with grilled meats, like teriyaki chicken or beef skewers, for a delightful meal. It also works wonders as a refreshing side to spicier dishes, offering a cooling balance. For a fun twist, add some toasted peanuts or cilantro on top right before serving.

How to store

To keep your Easy Asian Cucumber Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to its high water content, it’s best consumed within a day or two for optimal flavor and crunch. If prepping in advance, you can mix the sauce and cucumbers but wait to add the sesame seeds until just before serving to preserve their texture.

Pro chef tips

For an extra crunch, try using a mandoline slicer for your cucumbers.
If you’re short on time, skip the salting and refrigeration process, but keep in mind that doing so enhances the flavor and texture significantly.
Experiment with other vegetables like radishes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Creative twists

While this recipe is a gem as it is, feel free to explore variations for a unique twist. You can swap in some sliced carrots for additional color or use a mix of soy sauce and tamari for a gluten-free option. For those who love a touch of sweetness, adding some fresh mango or pineapple can elevate the flavor profile to new heights!

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to make the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad?
This salad can be prepared in about 30 minutes, most of which is inactive time while the cucumbers are soaking.

2. What if I can’t find Persian cucumbers?
English cucumbers or any thin-skinned variety can be used as a substitute. Just slice them in the same way.

3. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it’s best to enjoy it fresh. The cucumbers can release water over time.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?
To keep this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of light soy sauce, and always check the label.

5. How do I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of chili oil or add crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.

6. Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp or chicken would make a great addition, turning this side dish into a complete meal.

7. What else can I serve with it besides grilled meats?
This salad pairs beautifully with autumn dishes, such as roasted root vegetables or flavorful grain bowls.

8. How long can I store leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, if stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last for about 2 days before losing their exciting crunch.

Dive into the refreshingly crisp world of Easy Asian Cucumber Salad and bring a burst of flavor to your table!