When the temperature rises, nothing hits the spot quite like a crisp, cool, and flavorful salad — and Asian Cucumber Salad is the ultimate refreshing dish! Light, zesty, and bursting with vibrant flavor, it’s the perfect side to balance out hearty meals or to enjoy as a quick, healthy bite on its own.
Fun fact: Cucumbers are over 90% water, making them one of the most hydrating veggies you can eat — ideal for hot summer days or when you’re craving something light and revitalizing.
What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to rice bowls, and it’s so simple to prepare that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Think of it as the best friend of your kitchen — easygoing, supportive, and always bring a little extra zest to the table!
If you’ve enjoyed classic salads like Coleslaw, this Asian-inspired version brings a unique, tangy twist you’ll fall in love with. Let’s dive in and whip up this refreshing favorite!
What is Asian Cucumber Salad?
So what exactly makes this dish “Asian”? It’s all about the flavorful dressing — a harmonious blend of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness and spice. The result? A perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes that soak into the crisp cucumber slices.
Each bite is light yet packed with bold flavor — a “festival for your taste buds,” if you will. It’s the kind of dish that might just steal the spotlight from your main course!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Here’s why Asian Cucumber Salad deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation:
✨ Light & Refreshing: Cool, crunchy, and hydrating — perfect for summer or spicy meals.
Quick & Easy: Just 15 minutes to prep with minimal ingredients.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples make this a cost-effective side.
️ Flavor-Packed: Tangy vinegar, salty soy, and nutty sesame create a flavor explosion.
If you love our Asian Slaw, you’ll find this cucumber salad just as addictive — maybe even more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bring this refreshing dish to life, gather:
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2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
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½ cup rice vinegar
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Pro tip: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal — they’re less watery and have tender skin.
How to Make Asian Cucumber Salad
Quick Overview
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Serves: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices. -
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes until the sugar dissolves. -
Combine
Add sliced cucumbers to a large bowl and pour the dressing over. Toss gently to coat. -
Add Toppings
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salad and toss again. -
Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh cilantro and serve immediately — or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
What to Serve It With
Asian Cucumber Salad is wonderfully versatile! Try pairing it with:
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Grilled chicken or salmon – for a light, balanced meal
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Rice bowls or stir-fries – to add crunch and freshness
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Spicy noodles or curries – for a cooling contrast
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BBQ dishes – as a tangy, refreshing side
It’s also great as part of a picnic spread or potluck menu!
Top Tips for the Best Salad
✅ Choose the Right Cucumbers: Go for English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and maximum crunch.
✅ Adjust to Taste: Want it sweeter? Add more sugar. Prefer spicier? Increase chili flakes or add garlic.
✅ Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and crispness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Cucumbers will release some water as they sit, so just give the salad a quick toss before serving again.
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