This Asian-Style Cucumber Salad is crisp, cool, and packed with bold flavors like rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and a hint of heat. It’s quick to prepare, light on calories, and perfect as a side dish for stir-fries, grilled meats, or noodles. With just a handful of ingredients and a refreshing crunch, it’s your new go-to summer salad!
🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins
❄️ Chill Time: 15 mins (optional)
⏱️ Total Time: 25 mins
🍽️ Servings: 4
🔢 Calories per Serving: ~70
📝 Ingredients:
- 🥒 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced or smashed and cut into chunks
- 🧄 1 clove garlic, minced
- 🧂 ½ tsp salt
- 🍚 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 🍯 1 tsp sugar or honey
- 🌶️ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 🛢️ 1 tsp sesame oil
- 🌱 1 tbsp chopped scallions
- 🥢 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for umami)
- 🌰 Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cucumbers
Thinly slice the cucumbers or lightly smash them with the side of a knife and cut into bite-sized chunks. Sprinkle with salt, toss, and let sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain well and pat dry.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, garlic, sugar or honey, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce (if using).
3️⃣ Toss Together
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add scallions and gently toss to coat evenly.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve
Chill for 15 minutes if desired, or serve immediately. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- ✅ Light, fresh, and low-calorie
- ✅ Done in under 10 minutes
- ✅ Pairs with almost any Asian or grilled dish
- ✅ Easy to adjust spice level
- ✅ A healthy way to enjoy cucumbers differently!
📌 Save this Asian-Style Cucumber Salad recipe — it’s a crunchy, zippy side dish you’ll make on repeat all summer long!