Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

When I need something fast, cold, and bursting with flavor, this easy Asian cucumber salad is the first thing I reach for. It’s crisp, spicy, and refreshing—like a bite-sized pick-me-up in every forkful. Tossed in a tangy sesame-soy dressing with a hint of heat, it’s the kind of side that disappears in minutes. Seriously.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

It’s everything you want in a salad without the fuss.

• It’s crunchy, salty, tangy, and a little spicy
• It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish
• No fancy tools needed, just a bowl and a spoon
• It works with rice, noodles, grilled meats—you name it

This salad is especially perfect for hot days when you don’t want to cook, but still crave something that wakes up your tastebuds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Feel free to skip the chili oil if you’re spice-sensitive—or double it if you’re feeling bold.

How To Make It – Step-by-Step

1. Rinse cucumbers and slice them diagonally into thin oval rounds. No need to peel.
2. Place slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix gently and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
3. Drain the cucumbers and give them a quick rinse under cold water.
4. Pat dry and return to the bowl.
5. Add sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
6. Stir until every slice is shiny and coated.

Serve cold. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can chill it for later, too.

My Favorite Tips For Crunch & Flavor

• Sweat the cucumbers: Salting helps draw out excess water so the salad stays crisp, not soggy.
• Don’t skip the rinse: It prevents the cucumbers from becoming too salty.
• Adjust the dressing: Taste it as you go—you might want a touch more sugar or chili oil depending on your mood.
• Eat it fresh: It’s best served right after mixing while everything is still bright and snappy.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This salad is a versatile little number. I love it with grilled chicken, egg rolls, or even a big bowl of jasmine rice.

Try it alongside this rich creamy zucchini sauce for balance. Or for a spicy-crunchy party plate, serve it next to these crispy poblano chicken tacos and this vibrant cowboy caviar recipe.

FAQs

Try this refreshing twist and let me know how it turns out. Share your version in the comments or tag us online—I'd love to see your take!

Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas, or join the fun on Facebook.

Print