15-Minute Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad 🥒✨🌶️
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful dish, this easy Asian cucumber salad is perfect! With its quick preparation time and bold zesty flavors, the 15-Minute Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad allows you to enjoy a healthy side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This quick cucumber salad recipe combines crisp cucumbers with an Asian-inspired dressing, making it ideal for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a healthy snack. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply want a fresh salad packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try.
2. Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped fresh scallions for garnish
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making an Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Preparation of Cucumbers
Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
Mixing the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference.
Assembling the Salad
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving the Salad
Transfer the cucumber salad to serving bowls and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving.
4. Storage Tips
This easy Asian cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Note that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so tossing the salad before serving again is recommended.
5. Serving Suggestions
This quick cucumber salad recipe pairs well with grilled meats like Southern fried chicken or melt-in-your-mouth chicken. It can also serve as a refreshing accompaniment to Asian dishes or as a standalone healthy snack. For a more substantial meal, add some shredded chicken or tofu for extra protein.
6. FAQs About the Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the 15-minute Zesty Asian cucumber salad up to 2 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and toss again before serving to ensure freshness.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili flakes. For a sweeter touch, increase the honey. You can also swap rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar or use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free options.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, just ensure you use a vegan-friendly soy sauce and honey or maple syrup as sweetener.
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe is designed to be quick, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Mandoline slicer — Achieve perfectly thin and even cucumber slices effortlessly, elevating your salad presentation.
- Whisk — Easily mix the zesty dressing for a smooth, well-incorporated flavor profile.
- Airtight container — Keep your leftovers fresh, crisp, and ready for later.
Investing in quality kitchen tools like these will make the preparation of this easy Asian cucumber salad even more enjoyable and efficient.
8. Related Recipes to Explore
- Zesty citrus shrimp salad with creamy avocado
- Sweet refreshing summer chicken with peaches
- Healthy roasted peach BBQ chicken bake
9. Conclusion
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this easy Asian cucumber salad that’s bursting with zesty flavors and crisp textures. It’s a versatile, healthy addition to any meal, whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own. Perfect for summer potlucks or quick weeknight dinners, this quick cucumber salad recipe is sure to become a regular on your menu. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing taste of Asia with minimal effort!
Print
15-Minute Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad
Discover the quick and flavorful 15-Minute Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad, a perfect light side dish packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes, this refreshing cucumber salad is ideal for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or healthy snacking. Crispy cucumbers tossed in a zesty dressing make this recipe a must-try for fans of Asian cuisine and fresh salads.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped fresh scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the cucumber salad to serving bowls and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. For an extra kick, add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Toss the salad before serving if it has been stored as cucumbers may release water over time.
- You can customize the heat level by adjusting chili flakes or adding a splash of sriracha for extra spice.
- For a sweeter flavor, increase the honey or maple syrup as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing and Tossing
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 50 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg