Asian Style Cucumber Salad Recipe

Craving a vibrant and refreshing side dish? This addictive Asian-style cucumber salad is bursting with crisp, crunchy cucumbers, a spicy kick, and a touch of sweet honey. Perfect alongside grilled meats, fish, or tofu, this recipe is easily customizable to your preferred spice level. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite! #asiansalad #cucumbersalad #recipes #sidedish #spicyfood #easyrecipe #summerrecipe

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 65 mins
Calories 110.5 kcal
Protein 2g
Rating 4.8 (5 Reviews)
Asian Style Cucumber Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asian Style Cucumber Salad

  • Kirby Cucumbers
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey

How to Make Asian Style Cucumber Salad

  1. Cube 2 large cucumbers and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, toss to coat, and let stand for 1 hour at room temperature to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Transfer cucumbers to a colander, rinse lightly under cold running water, and drain thoroughly. Return cucumbers to the bowl.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a wok or heavy saucepan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil until shimmering.
  4. Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) and cook, stirring constantly for 15 seconds.
  5. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Remove from heat and immediately add the drained cucumbers to the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, cover, and chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Serve chilled. This salad will keep for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

48 g

Sugar

33g

Fat

5g

Carbs

4g