Quick & Easy 15-Minute Asian Cucumber Salad

Quick & Easy 15-Minute Asian Cucumber Salad 🍃🥒✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes, then this Asian cucumber salad is the perfect choice. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch idea or a vibrant side for dinner, this easy cucumber salad combines crisp cucumbers with savory Asian-inspired dressing to create a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. This 15-minute cucumber salad is versatile, easy to customize, and guaranteed to impress your taste buds.

2. Ingredients for the Asian cucumber salad

  • 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1-2 chopped green onions
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

3. Step-by-step instructions for making this easy cucumber salad

Preparing the cucumbers

Begin by rinsing the cucumbers thoroughly. Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer to slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or matchsticks, depending on your preference. Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl.

Mixing the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. This vibrant dressing forms the flavor base of your Asian cucumber salad.

Combining ingredients

Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.

4. Storage tips for this quick cucumber salad

To keep your easy cucumber salad fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours as the cucumbers can become watery over time. If you want to prepare it in advance, add the sesame seeds and green onions just before serving to keep their texture crisp.

5. Serving suggestions for this flavorful Asian cucumber salad

This 15-minute cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing side for rice bowls. For a complete Asian-inspired meal, you might consider serving it alongside dishes like Thai Chicken Satay Skewers or Citrus Shrimp Salad. The crispy texture and tangy dressing make it a versatile accompaniment that elevates any meal.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Asian cucumber salad

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

While rice vinegar is traditional in this Asian cucumber salad, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute. It will give a slightly different flavor, but still delicious. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this easy cucumber salad is gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

How long does it take to prepare?

Since this is a 15-minute cucumber salad, all prep work and dressing mixing can be done quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

8. Tips for customizing your Asian cucumber salad

  • Add thinly sliced carrots or radishes for extra crunch and color.
  • Adjust the amount of sesame oil for a more pronounced or subtle flavor.
  • Include chopped fresh cilantro for a herbal twist.
  • Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers.

9. Conclusion

In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delicious Asian cucumber salad that combines crisp textures with tangy, savory flavors. Perfect as a quick side dish or a light snack, this easy cucumber salad impresses with its simplicity and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or preparing a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the cooling crunch with every bite!

Print
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A vibrant Asian cucumber salad served in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with sliced cucumbers, sesame seeds, and finely chopped herbs. The cucumbers are thinly sliced, glistening with a light vinaigrette, and the colorful herbs add a fresh pop of green, creating an inviting and fresh presentation.

Quick & Easy 15-Minute Asian Cucumber Salad

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Discover the refreshing and flavorful Quick & Easy 15-Minute Asian Cucumber Salad, a perfect light side dish packed with crisp cucumbers and Asian-inspired dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for quick meals, healthy snacks, or vibrant accompaniments for any Asian-inspired menu.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 12 chopped green onions
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

  1. Begin by rinsing the cucumbers thoroughly. Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer to slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or matchsticks, depending on your preference. Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. This vibrant dressing forms the flavor base of your Asian cucumber salad.
  3. Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add thinly sliced carrots or radishes.
  • Adjust the sesame oil for a more or less pronounced flavor.
  • Include chopped fresh cilantro for a herbal twist.
  • Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers.
  • Keep refrigerated and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Add sesame seeds and green onions just before serving to maintain crunch.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 80 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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