If you’re searching for a light, refreshing, and flavorful side dish, this Simple Asian Cucumber Salad will quickly become a favorite. Made with crunchy cucumbers, a tangy sesame-soy dressing, and a touch of spice, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer gatherings.
Cucumber salads are popular across Asia, from Korean oi muchim to Japanese sunomono, and this recipe takes inspiration from those flavors while keeping things quick and easy. The best part? You only need 10 minutes and a handful of pantry ingredients to make it.
Whether you want a healthy snack, a fresh side dish for grilled meats, or a dish to balance out a rich stir-fry, this simple Asian cucumber salad recipe is the perfect fit.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Asian Cucumber Salad
- Quick and Easy – Ready in 10 minutes with no cooking required.
- Light but Flavorful – The cucumbers soak up the tangy, savory dressing beautifully.
- Versatile – Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light lunch.
- Healthy – Low in calories, hydrating, and full of antioxidants.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice, sweetness, or crunch to your taste.
Ingredients for Simple Asian Cucumber Salad
To make this salad, you’ll only need a few fresh ingredients and some Asian pantry staples.
- 2 English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers) – thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt – to draw out water from cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – for tangy flavor
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – for umami and saltiness
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – adds nutty aroma
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey – balances acidity
- 1 garlic clove, minced – for a sharp bite
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional) – adds warmth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or sliced chili – for heat
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds – garnish and crunch
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced – garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Place them in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Drain excess liquid and pat cucumbers dry with a paper towel.
(This step helps keep the salad crunchy instead of watery.)
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
3. Combine and Toss
- Add cucumbers to the dressing and toss well until evenly coated.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.
Tips for the Best Simple Asian Cucumber Salad
- Slice Thinly – Use a mandoline or sharp knife for even slices.
- Salt First – Always salt cucumbers before adding dressing to prevent excess water.
- Toast Sesame Seeds – A quick toast in a dry pan enhances their nutty flavor.
- Adjust Heat – Add more chili flakes or fresh sliced chili for spicier salad.
- Make Ahead – The salad tastes best when chilled for a short time before serving.
Variations of Asian Cucumber Salad
This recipe is flexible, and you can adjust it to match your taste or pantry items:
- Korean Style (Oi Muchim) – Add gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) and a touch of fish sauce.
- Japanese Style (Sunomono) – Swap soy sauce for mirin and dashi for a sweeter, lighter flavor.
- Thai Style – Add lime juice, fish sauce, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a little Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a different texture.
- Protein Boost – Top with grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for a light meal.
What to Serve with Simple Asian Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or beef skewers
- Stir-fried noodles or fried rice
- Sushi rolls or poke bowls
- BBQ ribs or wings
- Steamed dumplings
It’s especially perfect as a cooling side dish alongside spicy mains.
Storage Tips
- Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften but will still taste great.
- Meal Prep – Make the dressing ahead and keep cucumbers separate. Mix just before serving for best crunch.
- Freezing – Not recommended, as cucumbers lose texture when frozen.
Health Benefits of Asian Cucumber Salad
- Hydration – Cucumbers are 95% water, keeping you refreshed.
- Low-Calorie – Great for weight management.
- Nutrient-Rich – Provides vitamin K, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Gut-Friendly – Vinegar helps with digestion.
This makes it an excellent choice for a light and nutritious side dish.
FAQs About Simple Asian Cucumber Salad
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English or Persian?
A: Yes, but peel them first and scoop out large seeds, as they release more water.
Q: Can I make it less spicy?
A: Absolutely—just skip the chili flakes or replace them with a pinch of black pepper.
Q: How long should I let the cucumbers sit with salt?
A: 10–15 minutes is enough to draw out excess moisture while keeping them crunchy.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Yes! It’s naturally vegan-friendly. Just ensure your soy sauce is vegan-certified.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a party?
A: Yes, simply scale up the ingredients. It’s a great dish for potlucks and BBQs.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Asian Cucumber Salad is a quick, refreshing, and flavorful dish that works with almost any meal. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy salad in minutes.
It’s the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want something light and healthy. Try it once, and you’ll see why this simple cucumber salad is a staple in so many Asian kitchens.