Ah, the *Asian cucumber salad*! This dish has a special place in my heart, especially on those warm, sunny days when I crave something light and refreshing. It’s so simple to whip up, and trust me, it’s all about the crunch of those cool cucumbers mixed with a zesty dressing that just dances on your taste buds. I remember the first time I made this salad for my family; I thought it would be a quick side, but it ended up stealing the show! Everyone kept asking for seconds—and thirds! You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and with just a handful of ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s vegan and packed with flavors, making it a guilt-free treat. Just give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
- 2 large cucumbers, washed and sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar, which adds a lovely tanginess
- 2 tablespoons sugar, to balance the acidity
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, for that savory depth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, giving a nutty flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), for a bit of heat if you like
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, adding a fresh, herbal note
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions, for a nice crunch and oniony flavor
How to Prepare *Asian Cucumber Salad* Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
First things first, let’s get those cucumbers ready! Start by washing them thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt. I like to use a vegetable brush to be extra sure they’re clean. Once they’re nice and fresh, slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch thick works well. This will help them soak up all that delicious dressing! A sharp knife is your best friend here; it makes slicing so much easier. If you have a mandoline, that’s perfect for achieving uniform slices. Just be careful with those fingers! A little tip: if you find the cucumbers too watery, you can sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out some moisture before rinsing and patting them dry.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up that zesty dressing! In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. It’s important to mix these ingredients really well until the sugar dissolves completely. I usually use a small whisk for this, but a fork works just as well. This dressing is the heart of the salad, so take your time to ensure everything is well blended for the best flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Once your dressing is ready, it’s time to bring it all together! Gently add the sliced cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing. Using a spatula or your hands, toss the cucumbers carefully to coat them in that lovely mixture. Remember, you want to be gentle here—no need to bruise those crunchy cucumbers! Just a light toss will do, ensuring every slice gets a bit of that savory goodness.
Step 4: Let It Sit
Here comes the magical part! Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This little resting period allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing and the flavors to meld beautifully. I often find that this is when the salad transforms into something truly special. Just enough time for you to sip on a cup of tea or prep your next dish!
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Before serving, it’s time to add those fresh elements! Stir in the chopped cilantro and sliced green onions into the salad. These ingredients add a burst of freshness and color, making the salad even more delightful. Plus, they bring a lovely aromatic quality that elevates the entire dish. Give it one last gentle toss, and you’re all set to enjoy this refreshing *Asian cucumber salad*! Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of cool cucumbers and zesty dressing creates a light and invigorating dish that’s ideal for warm weather.
- Healthy and Guilt-Free: With simple, wholesome ingredients, this salad is vegan and low in calories, so you can enjoy it without any worries.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals, from grilled meats to rice dishes, or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste; add sesame seeds, or swap in your favorite herbs for a personal touch!
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your *Asian cucumber salad* turns out absolutely delightful! First, if you want to amp up the flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice or a bit of grated ginger to the dressing. It really brightens things up! For those who may prefer a sweeter touch, substituting honey for sugar is a fantastic option. Just keep in mind that honey isn’t vegan, so stick with sugar if that’s important to you.
If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds for an extra layer of texture. And don’t shy away from experimenting with the herbs; fresh mint or basil can give a lovely twist to the flavor profile. Lastly, remember to taste your dressing before adding it to the cucumbers—adjust the saltiness or sweetness according to your preference. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional benefits of your food can be so helpful! For this *Asian cucumber salad*, each serving size is about 1 cup, and here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 3g (of which saturated fat is 0g)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These values are estimates, of course, and can vary based on specific ingredients used. This salad is not only light and refreshing but also a wonderful low-calorie option that fits well into a healthy diet. Enjoy it guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the *Asian cucumber salad* a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. However, I recommend adding the cilantro and green onions just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the cucumbers may release more water, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Can I swap out the cucumbers for another vegetable?
Yes! While cucumbers are the star here, you can also use thinly sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots for a different crunch. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but it can be just as delicious!
Is this salad gluten-free?
The *Asian cucumber salad* is nearly gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce if you need to avoid gluten altogether. There are plenty of delicious alternatives available now!
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also makes a fantastic side to Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries or rice bowls. Feel free to enjoy it any way you like!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your *Asian cucumber salad* is a breeze! If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay good for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers might release more moisture over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Now, reheating isn’t really necessary here since it’s a refreshing dish meant to be served cold. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer salad, you can gently warm it in the microwave for just a few seconds—be cautious not to overdo it, as you don’t want to lose that crispiness! Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Serving Suggestions
The *Asian cucumber salad* is such a versatile dish that it complements many meals beautifully! If you’re having a summer barbecue, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled tofu if you’re looking for a plant-based option. For a complete meal, consider serving it with rice or quinoa bowls topped with your choice of protein, whether it’s beef, pork, or even chickpeas for a vegan twist.
Feeling like a picnic? Pack this salad with some rice paper rolls or spring rolls for a light, satisfying lunch. It even shines as a stand-alone dish at potlucks or gatherings, offering a crisp and healthy choice. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this salad will surely brighten up your plate!
Print
Delightful Asian Cucumber Salad: 5 Simple Steps to Comfort
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing Asian cucumber salad that is easy to prepare and perfect for warm days.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly.
- In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir in cilantro and green onions.
Notes
- For a low-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce.
- You can substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Add sesame seeds for extra crunch if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, vegan salad, refreshing salad
