Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A refreshing and light salad that combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tangy Asian dressing.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-20T21:45:53.536Z

This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. The crunchiness of fresh cucumbers combined with the zesty dressing makes it a favorite for summer barbecues and weeknight dinners alike.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Crisp and refreshing with every bite
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Healthy and light, perfect for warm weather

      

A Perfect Summer Dish

When the temperatures rise, there's nothing quite like a cool, refreshing salad to brighten your meal. This Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect choice for warm weather dining. Its light and crisp texture makes it an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats or as a standalone dish for a light lunch. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a pop of color to your table.

The combination of cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro creates a delightful crunch, while the dressing infuses the salad with tangy notes that awaken your palate. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great choice for hydration and overall wellness.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing. If you enjoy a bit more texture, try incorporating some chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews for added crunch and flavor.

Additionally, this salad can be enjoyed year-round. While it shines in the summer, you can also serve it during fall or winter gatherings by adding seasonal ingredients like diced apples or pomegranate seeds. This adaptability makes it a fantastic recipe to keep in your repertoire for all occasions.

Perfect Pairings

Serving this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad alongside your favorite dishes can elevate any meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a refreshing side to spicy Asian stir-fries. The lightness of the salad complements richer dishes beautifully, providing a satisfying contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding proteins like grilled shrimp or tofu to the salad. This not only makes it heartier but also adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a well-rounded dish. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumber

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic.

Combine

Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. However, be aware that the cucumbers will release moisture over time, which may make the salad a bit watery. To maintain the crispness, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it with the salad just before serving.

For best results, consume the salad within a day for optimal freshness and flavor. This way, you can enjoy the bright, crunchy texture that makes this dish so appealing.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also brimming with health benefits. Cucumbers are an excellent source of hydration and provide essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K and potassium. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor while also offering antioxidants that promote overall health.

The dressing, made with rice vinegar and sesame oil, provides healthy fats and can help to improve digestion. The combination of these ingredients creates a salad that is not only light but also nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a vegan alternative.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.