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Easy Quick Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe – Fresh, Crisp & Flavor-Packed Side Dish

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This Quick Asian Cucumber Salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold flavor. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sesame-ginger dressing for a light and addictive side dish.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lb cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 5 scallions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1.5 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1.5 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1.5 tsp chili garlic sauce

Instructions

  1. Score cucumbers lightly with a fork and slice into thin rounds.
  2. Place cucumbers in a colander, toss with salt, and let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Meanwhile, whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and maple syrup in a bowl until combined.
  4. Add garlic, ginger, and chili garlic sauce, and mix well.
  5. Gently press cucumbers to remove remaining liquid and transfer to a bowl.
  6. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Add scallions, sesame seeds, and cilantro, then toss again.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let sit 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Salting the cucumbers is key to keeping them crisp and not watery.
  • Adjust sweetness, spice, or salt to taste.
  • Best served fresh but can chill briefly before serving.
  • Great as a side for grilled meats, rice bowls, or noodles.
  • Author: lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 245
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg