The Ultimate Crunchy & Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

There’s something magical about the first bite of a perfectly made Asian cucumber salad. The satisfying crunch of fresh cucumbers, the tangy-sweet dressing with hints of sesame, and that subtle kick of spice that wakes up your taste buds. This refreshing side dish brings a burst of vibrant flavors that complement everything from grilled meats to rice bowls, making it the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a light accompaniment to your weeknight dinner, this versatile salad delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.

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Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

This vibrant salad combines the refreshing crunch of cucumbers with a perfectly balanced dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and just a touch spicy. The smashing technique creates crevices in the cucumber that allow the flavorful dressing to penetrate deeply, making every bite burst with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad Base:

• 6 Persian cucumbers (or 2 English cucumbers)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
• 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds, toasted

For the Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon tamari soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1-2 teaspoons chili crisp (adjust to your spice preference)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Smash the cucumbers: Lay the side of your knife flat against each cucumber and gently press down with your palm until the skin splits open. This creates crevices for the dressing to penetrate. You can also use a meat mallet for this step.
2. Slice the cucumbers: Cut the smashed cucumbers on an angle into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch thick.
3. Salt and drain: Place the cucumber pieces in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and gently massage the salt into the cucumbers. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess water.
4. Rinse and dry: Quickly rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt, then thoroughly pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Make the Dressing

1. Combine dressing ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chili crisp until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust: Sample the dressing and adjust seasoning to your preference. Add more honey for sweetness or chili crisp for heat.

Assemble the Salad

1. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared cucumbers, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and half of the sesame seeds.
2. Add dressing: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining sesame seeds on top for garnish.
4. Serve: For best flavor and texture, let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about this Asian cucumber salad is how versatile it is. Here are some exciting variations to keep this recipe fresh and interesting every time you make it:

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Asian Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad works beautifully alongside many dishes. Here are some perfect pairings to create a complete meal:

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, here are some tips for storing and preparing it ahead of time:

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight glass container for up to 3 days.
• Texture changes: The cucumbers will soften over time and release more water. For best results, consume within 24 hours.
• Drain before serving: If storing longer than a few hours, you may want to drain excess liquid before serving leftovers.

Make-Ahead Options

• Prep components separately: Smash and salt the cucumbers, prepare the dressing, and chop the herbs up to 24 hours in advance.
• Quick assembly: Combine all components just 30 minutes before serving for the perfect balance of flavor infusion while maintaining crispness.
• Refresh leftovers: Add a splash of fresh rice vinegar and some newly sliced green onions to refresh day-old cucumber salad.

Nutritional Information

This Asian cucumber salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also a healthy addition to your meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Ready to Make This Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad?

This Asian cucumber salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a refreshing, flavor-packed addition that will elevate any meal. The contrast between the cool, crisp cucumbers and the bold, savory dressing creates a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite Asian-inspired main dish or enjoying it as a light lunch on a hot summer day, this salad is sure to impress.

Remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level, try different herbs, or experiment with the variations we’ve suggested. Cooking is all about making food that brings you joy—and we hope this Asian cucumber salad does exactly that!