Asian Cucumber Salad
This simple Asian cucumber salad is a quick and refreshing side dish that is packed iwth flavor. Crisp cucumbers are tossed in a savory-sweet dressing made with soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, ginger and vinegar. It’s light, flavorful and comes together in minutes.
Why you’ll love this cucumber salad
- Quick – Ready in 30 minutes!
- Healthy and hydrating .
- Packed with flavor with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep.
What you will need
Ingredient List
- Cucumbers – Persian or English are best
- Salt
- Garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Honey
- Rice Vinegar
- Sesame Oil
- Fresh Ginger
How to make Asian Cucumber Salad
Prepare the ingredients: Rinse and dry the cucumbers under water and wipe them try. Chop or grate the fresh ginger, chop the garlic. Mix the honey, soy sauce, vinegar and oil together in a small bowl.
STEP 1: Slice the cucmbers into slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. Place them into a bowl and sprinkle with a little bit of salt.
STEP 2: Let them sit for about 10 minutes. Drain off any excess liquid. Pour the soy sauce over the cucumbers in the bowl.
STEP 3: Toss the ingredients together, and refrigerate for 10 to 20 minutes before serving.
Tips for making the best cucumber salad
- Don’t skip the salt and drain step, it’s what keeps the salad from turning watery.
- Chill before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Add crushed red pepper or chili oil if you like heat.
Check out the full recipe with complete instructions below in the recipe card!
How to store leftover cucumber salad
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container. The flavor deepens over time, and the cucumbers may soften, but still tasty!
Serving suggestions
Serve it as a side with your favorite salad like this spicy Thai Chicken Salad, or add to a charcuterie spread. This salad is alos a great addition to a salad like this summer chopped salad.
Recipe Variaions
- Spicy- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil.
- Nutty – Toss in toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.
- Cilantro – Add a handful for brightness.
- Extra Veggies – Add julienned carrots or thinly sliced onions.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can easily prepare this cucumber salad ahead of time! Prepare the cucumbers and dressing separately. Store them in the fridge for a day, then combine just before serving.
It is not necessary to peel the cucumbers unless the skin is bitter. Take a taste before making the salad.
This salad is gluten-free if you sue tamari sauce or coconut aminos in place fo soy sauce.
Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cucumbers
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ginger
Instructions
- Rinse and dry the cucumbers under water and wipe them dry, slice into rounds that are about 1/4 inch thick. Grated teh fresh ginger, chop the garlic.
- Mix the honey, soy sauce and vinegar together in a small bowl.
- Place the sliced cucumbers into a medium sized bowl and sprinkle with salt and toss. Let them sit for 10 to 15 mintues.
- Drian the excess moisture from the cucumber slices and add the sauce, toss to coat well and refrigerate.
