Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Asian cucumber salad brings together a harmony of flavors—sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy—making it an unforgettable treat. The crisp, cool cucumbers provide a perfect base, while the sesame seeds, garlic, and green onion enhance the dish with layers of umami. The Chinese chili oil adds just the right amount of heat, and the rice vinegar brings a refreshing acidity to the mix. It’s a fantastic side for any Asian-inspired meal and is also a great light snack!

Ingredients

• 5 cucumbers
• 3 tsp granulated white sugar
• 2 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp garlic, crushed
• 2 to 3 tbsp green onion, chopped
• 1 ½ tbsp soy sauce
• 3 tsp rice vinegar
• 3 tsp Chinese chili oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 3 tsp salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly. You can peel them if you prefer, but keeping the skin on adds extra texture and color.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers with the salt. Toss the cucumbers to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the cucumbers sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess water.
3. After the cucumbers have released water, gently squeeze out the liquid and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, Chinese chili oil, sesame oil, sugar, and crushed garlic until the sugar dissolves.
5. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.
6. Add the chopped green onions and sesame seeds, then give the salad one final toss.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for an even more refreshing flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Marinating time: 10-15 minutes
• Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add some cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to the salad.
• Crispy Noodles: Top the salad with crispy fried noodles for an added crunch.
• Extra Spice: Increase the amount of Chinese chili oil if you prefer a spicier version of this salad.
• Cilantro: Add some fresh cilantro for an herbaceous flavor to complement the salad.
• Carrots: Grated or julienned carrots can be added for extra color and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some of its crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer a slightly warmer salad, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use English cucumbers for this salad?

Yes, English cucumbers work great for this salad as they are less watery and have a thinner skin, making them perfect for a crisp and refreshing salad.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to serve it within a few hours of making it to ensure the cucumbers stay crisp. If you refrigerate it for too long, the cucumbers may become soggy.

Is the Chinese chili oil essential?

The Chinese chili oil adds a distinct spicy flavor, but if you prefer a milder salad, you can omit it or substitute it with a small amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.

Can I make this salad without sesame oil?

Sesame oil contributes a unique nutty flavor to the salad, but you can omit it if you don’t have it. Alternatively, you could use a small amount of olive oil or vegetable oil as a substitute.

What type of vinegar is best for this salad?

Rice vinegar is ideal for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar effect.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Absolutely! You can add extra Chinese chili oil or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

How long should I let the cucumbers sit with salt?

Allowing the cucumbers to sit for 10-15 minutes helps draw out excess moisture, keeping the salad crisp. Squeeze the cucumbers to remove any excess liquid before mixing with the dressing.

How can I make this salad sweeter?

You can increase the amount of sugar or add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing for a sweeter flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, feel free to add thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even cabbage to the salad for extra crunch and flavor.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan and can be enjoyed by anyone following a plant-based diet.

Conclusion

This Asian cucumber salad is the perfect balance of crunchy, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it an excellent side dish or appetizer. The combination of fresh cucumbers, savory soy sauce, and spicy chili oil creates a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Try this recipe for your next meal, and it’s sure to be a hit!

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