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Refreshing, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this quick Asian cucumber salad recipe won't be another boring side dish on your table. It's a healthy appetizer made with simple ingredients like cucumber, sesame oil, and Asian spices!
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Cucumber is hugely popular in Asian cuisine because it is light, fresh, and healthy. While it can be a bit bland on its own, it’s the perfect base for a flavorful dressing like the one used in this recipe.
If you need a break from the usual salads, then trying this spicy Asian cucumber salad is a great way to switch things up. It’s crunchy, delicious, and tangy with a little bit of heat!
Want to keep this even simpler? You can’t go wrong with my Pickled Cucumber recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy. It only takes 20 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for a last-minute side dish!
- Super light yet satisfying. No heavy dressings or creamy sauces here! It’s great as a side dish to balance out a heavier main course.
- Healthy and nutritious. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s about 96% water too, so that’s an added bonus!
Ingredients
- cucumber – use varieties with thin skins and fewer seeds. Persian cucumbers are less watery than others, but you can use burpless or Japanese cucumbers too.
- vinegar – I’m using apple cider vinegar, but you can use rice vinegar instead. It adds a slight tanginess to the salad.
- sesame oil – no Asian salad dressing is complete without a touch of sesame oil. It adds an authentic nutty flavor to the dish.
- chili powder and chili oil – give a nice, spicy kick to the light flavors. You can always adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
Variations
- Protein boost. Make this salad heartier by putting shrimp kebab or juicy boneless chicken breasts on top. It’s an easy way to turn this salad into a complete meal.
- Red onions. Add some thinly sliced onions for another level of crunch and flavor. It’s simple, but it makes a big difference.
- Korean-style. Use some gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) inside of chili oil. You can also top it off with kimchi for a more authentic Korean flavor.
- Thai-inspired. Mix in some chopped peanuts, cilantro, lime juice, and a splash of fish sauce to the dressing for a Thai twist on this salad.
How to Make Spicy Cucumber Salad
The key to making a great Asian cucumber salad lies in the dressing. My recipe is garlicky, spicy, and savory with just a touch of sweetness and tanginess. Not to mention, it only takes a few minutes to put together!
- Rinse the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into pieces. Add the salt to the cucumber and stir gently to combine well. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Drain the salt water from the cucumber.
Pro tip: Salting the cucumber not only adds flavor but also helps to draw out excess water. It will give the salad a crisp and refreshing texture.
- Combine the garlic, vinegar, sugar, chili powder, chili oil, and sesame oil together and stir to mix well. Make sure that the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add the dressing to the cucumber and toss well. Top with sesame seeds and serve.
I love chilling my salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the cucumbers a chance to soak up all those delicious flavors, making every bite even more satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Asian cucumber salad healthy?
Yes, Asian cucumber salad is a healthy dish. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, so you won’t feel guilty indulging in it. The dressing used in this recipe is also made with light ingredients such as vinegar and sesame oil.
How long does cucumber salad last in the fridge?
It can last in the fridge for 1 to 2 days, but it’s best served immediately. The longer it sits, the more watery the salad becomes.
Can you freeze cucumber salad?
No, I don’t recommend freezing this salad as the cucumber will become soggy and mushy when thawed.
How Many Calories per Serving?
This spicy cucumber recipe is only 95 calories per serving.
What to Serve with Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad
Don’t limit yourself to enjoying this salad solely with Asian-inspired dishes. It complements a wide range of main courses, from proteins, simple rice and noodle dishes to just about anything else you can imagine.
For a wholesome and easy weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes:
Chicken Teriyaki
Fried Rice
Shrimp Garlic Noodles
I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please share your photo in the Comments section and consider giving it a 5-star rating. I can’t wait to see your creations! Additionally, feel free to explore my other Asian salad recipes, such as Thai Cucumber Salad, Green Papaya Salad, and Sichuan Smashed Cucumber Salad next. Happy cooking!
Asian Cucumber Salad
Refreshing, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this quick Asian cucumber salad recipe won't be another boring side dish on your table. It's a healthy appetizer made with simple ingredients like cucumber, sesame oil, and Asian spices!
4.56 from 467 votes
By Bee Yinn Low
Yield 2 people
Prep 5 minutes mins
Additional Time 15 minutes mins
Total 20 minutes mins
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber (about 8 oz. (226 g))
- 3/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Korean chili powder or regular chili powder
- 1 teaspoon chili oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- sesame seeds for garnishing
Instructions
Rinse the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into pieces. Add the salt to the cucumber, stir gently to combine well. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Drain the salt water from the cucumber after chilling.
Add the garlic, vinegar, sugar, chili powder, chili oil, and sesame oil together, stir to mix well. Make sure that the sugar is completely dissolved. Toss well.
Top with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
- After slicing the cucumbers, add salt and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This step will draw out excess moisture that will keep the salad crisp.
- Chill the cucumber salad at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavors.
- This cucumber keeps well infor 1 to 2 days, but it’s best served immediately. The longer it sits, the more watery the salad becomes.
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Asian Recipes
Keywords: Asian Cucumber Salad
Nutrition
Serving: 2people, Calories: 95kcal (5%), Carbohydrates: 16.2g (5%), Protein: 1.3g (3%), Fat: 3.9g (6%), Saturated Fat: 0.6g (4%), Sodium: 889mg (39%), Fiber: 1.3g (5%), Sugar: 11.6g (13%)
