Are you ready to whip up a delightful dish that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor? I’m excited to share my Easy Asian Cucumber Salad recipe with you! This refreshing salad is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something light yet satisfying. In just 10 minutes, you can create a healthy Asian cucumber dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for quick family dinners or as a side for your favorite easy pasta recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes!
- Perfect for healthy meal prep or as a side dish for any occasion.
- Light and refreshing, making it ideal for summer gatherings.
- Customizable to your taste with optional ingredients.
- Low in calories and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients
To make this delicious salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 Persian cucumbers
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1/2-1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful salad:
- Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
- Continue slicing at an angle. The slices should look more oval than round, and the thickness is up to your preference.
- Add the cucumber slices to a bowl or container and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of salt.
- Mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
- After 20 minutes, drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10-second rinse before returning them to the bowl.
- Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic (if using).
- Stir until well combined and serve. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your salad:
- For a Spicy Cucumber Salad, add more chili oil or even some red pepper flakes!
- Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.
- If you’re looking for a Cucumber Edamame Asian Salad, toss in some cooked edamame for extra protein.
- Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference; some like it sweeter!
- For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout.
How to Serve
This salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish.
- Pair it with creamy garlic pasta for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Serve it as part of a light lunch with some whole grain crackers.
- It’s also a great addition to any summer picnic or barbecue!
Make Ahead and Storage
This salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers.
- If you want to enjoy it later, consider making a larger batch for 30-minute meals throughout the week!
So there you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a light side for your next gathering, this salad is a winner. Don’t forget to check out my other recipes like Chia Pudding for a healthy dessert option or explore more Asian Cooking ideas on my blog. Happy cooking!

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Slice cucumbers at an angle and sprinkle with salt. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Drain excess water, rinse cucumbers quickly, then return to bowl.
- Add sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic. Mix well.