Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Delight Recipe
A refreshing and easy-to-make Asian cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced Persian cucumbers tossed in a tangy, savory, and slightly spicy dressing. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, this salad delivers a crisp texture with bold flavors of soy, sesame, rice vinegar, and chili oil.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cucumbers
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
Dressing
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Slice Cucumbers: Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice off one end at an angle, then continue slicing each cucumber diagonally into oval-shaped pieces. Adjust the thickness according to your preference.
- Salt and Refrigerate: Place sliced cucumbers in a bowl or container. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out excess water and enhance crunchiness.
- Drain and Rinse: After refrigerating, drain the liquid released from cucumbers. Quickly rinse the cucumbers under cold water for about 10 seconds to remove excess salt, then drain again and return the cucumbers to the bowl.
- Prepare and Add Dressing: Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar (starting with 1/2 tablespoon), rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic (if using) to the cucumbers.
- Mix and Serve: Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Enjoy your tangy and spicy Asian cucumber salad!
Notes
- Sugar amount can be adjusted from 1/2 to 1 tablespoon based on your taste preference and the type of chili oil used.
- Garlic is optional but recommended for extra flavor. Feel free to omit it if preferred.
- Chili oil quantity should be adjusted to your desired spice level. Homemade or store-bought options work well.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain its crispness and fresh flavors.