Asian cucumber salad is a refreshing and simple dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This light and crunchy salad is perfect for hot days when you crave something cool and hydrating. It’s also a fantastic side dish for heavier main courses, providing a balance of taste and texture. Let’s dive into why this salad should be your next culinary adventure!
Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad
Cucumbers are known for their high water content, making them excellent for hydration. They are low in calories but packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. This makes cucumber salad not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Asian cucumber salad:
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber
- Dressing:
- Low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Maple syrup or agave
- Toppings:
- Spicy oil
- Sesame seeds
Possible Substitutions For This Asian Cucumber Salad
- English Cucumber: You can use Persian cucumbers for a similar texture and flavor.
- Soy Sauce/Tamari: Substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Sesame Oil: Olive oil can be a substitute, but it will lack the distinctive sesame flavor.
- Maple Syrup/Agave: Honey can be used if you’re not strictly vegan.
- Spicy Oil: A dash of chili flakes or sriracha can provide the heat if spicy oil is unavailable.
- Sesame Seeds: Chia seeds or flax seeds can be used for a different texture and nutritional profile.
Ingredients Spotlight
English Cucumber
English cucumbers are perfect for salads due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. They are sweeter and less bitter compared to regular cucumbers.
Soy Sauce or Tamari
These provide the umami flavor essential to the dressing. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Rice Vinegar
This vinegar adds a subtle tanginess without overpowering the other flavors in the salad.
Sesame Oil
A small amount of sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Maple Syrup or Agave
These sweeteners balance the acidity of the vinegar and the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating a harmonious dressing.
Spicy Oil
A little heat from the spicy oil gives the salad an exciting kick. Adjust to your preference.
Sesame Seeds
These add a bit of crunch and a slightly nutty flavor, perfect for topping off the salad.
Helpful Tools
To prepare this salad, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:
- Peeler: For creating thin cucumber ribbons.
- Whisk: To blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For mixing the dressing.
- Serving Bowl: To toss and serve the salad.
How To Make This Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
Making this Asian cucumber salad is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
Prep the Cucumber: Cut the cucumber in half, then use a peeler to slice it lengthwise into long, thin ribbons.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and maple syrup.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cucumber ribbons to a serving bowl and top with the dressing. Mix gently to combine.
Add Toppings: Top with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy oil.
Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Tricks For This Asian Cucumber Salad
- Selecting the Best Cucumber: Choose firm, dark green cucumbers without any soft spots.
- Adjusting the Spiciness: Start with a small amount of spicy oil and adjust to taste.
- Enhancing Flavors: Let the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld, but not too long to avoid fogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s best to prepare the cucumber ribbons and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
While you can, English cucumbers are preferred due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, which provide a better texture for the salad.
Add the spicy oil gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired level of heat.
Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 1 large english cucumber
Dressing
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
Toppings
- 1 tsp spicy oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cut the cucumber in half, then using a peeler, carefully slice the cucumber lengthwise into long thin ribbons.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and maple syrup.
- Add the cucumber ribbons into a serving bowl, and top with the dressing. Mix gently to combine.
- Top with sesame seeds, and spicy oil and serve immediately. This salad does not keep well, so serve and enjoy right away for the best texture!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian cucumber salad is a perfect blend of refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful elements. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a tasty snack, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Loved this cucumber salad so fresh and delicious! I will make this as a side for another meal soon.
yayy i’m so happy you loved it! it’s so fast and easy 🙂
This was such a great fresh cucumber salad. So easy to make an absolutely love the sauce.
Thank you!! I’m so happy you loved it 🙂
This recipe was so quick and easy to make fantastic
This was so fresh and delicious!! Thanks!!
Thank you so much! I’m so happy you loved it!
I had some cucumbers to use that, and this recipe was lovely. 🥒
Thank you so much Coleen! Glad you loved it 🙂
Fantastic idea. So quick and easy and actually made this in under 10 minutes with all the prep and everything. My kids loved it too, and I will make it again.
Thank you SOOO much! I’m so happy it was kid approved too! 🙂
This was banging!!! So easy and tasty! 😋
THANK YOU!! 🙂