Refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad: A Crunchy Delight

There’s something refreshing about an Asian cucumber salad that makes it feel like a cool breeze on a hot summer day. Crunchy cucumbers mingling with zesty dressing, vibrant herbs, and a hint of spice create a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate. It’s the kind of dish that can elevate the simplest meal or stand proudly alone as the star of your picnic spread.

Now, picture yourself at a backyard barbecue, laughter filling the air, and your friends diving into this colorful salad like it’s the last lifeboat on a sinking ship. The moment you taste the first bite, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a bustling Asian street market where every vendor is vying for your attention with their tantalizing aromas. Trust me; this salad is not just food; it’s an experience.

Nothing brings people together like good food—especially when it’s this salad that sparked joy at my friend’s potluck last summer. Everyone was raving about how refreshing and delightful it was.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers with smooth skin for optimal crunch; Persian cucumbers work wonderfully here too.

• Rice Vinegar: Opt for unseasoned rice vinegar to maintain control over the flavor profile.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce allows you to enjoy savory notes without overwhelming saltiness.

• Sesame Oil: A small amount adds a nutty richness; toasted sesame oil enhances flavor even further.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will add zing; adjust according to your taste.

• Fresh Herbs (Mint and Cilantro): These herbs brighten the salad and add layers of flavor; choose fresh whenever possible.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust these based on your spice tolerance; they add just the right kick!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Cucumbers: Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandolin for uniformity and that perfect crunch.

Create the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined. The aroma should make you swoon!

Toss with Herbs: Add chopped mint and cilantro into the dressing mixture. Stir gently to combine and release those fragrant herbal notes that will make everyone swoon.

Combine Everything Together: Toss sliced cucumbers in the dressing mixture until they’re well-coated. Let them soak up those zesty flavors for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Chill Before Serving: Pop the salad in the fridge while you prepare other dishes for about 30 minutes so it can chill and develop even more flavor.

Enjoy every refreshing bite of this vibrant Asian cucumber salad!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing cucumbers thinly to enhance their crunchiness. Then, prepare the dressing while the cucumbers drain. This method ensures flavors meld beautifully without excess water diluting your salad.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch. Adding sesame seeds or crushed peanuts can also elevate the texture and taste, giving it a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Asian cucumber salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it chilled to maintain its refreshing qualities and crunchy texture.

Reflecting on my first attempt at making this Asian cucumber salad brings back memories of a sunny picnic where everyone raved about it, especially my picky uncle who surprisingly went back for seconds!

FAQ

What cucumbers are best for Asian cucumber salad?

English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and minimal seeds.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp adds delicious protein and makes it a meal.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

The salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly.

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Asian Cucumber Salad

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Asian cucumber salad is a refreshing, crunchy dish that perfectly balances zesty flavors and vibrant herbs, making it an ideal accompaniment for summer barbecues or a light meal. This bright salad is easy to prepare and customizable, ensuring it will impress your guests and elevate any picnic spread. Enjoy the delightful crunch of fresh cucumbers, aromatic herbs, and a hint of spice in every bite.

• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 4 cups fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 2 medium English cucumbers)
• 1/4 cup unseasoned rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

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Instructions

1. Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly using a knife or mandolin for uniformity.
2. In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stir in chopped mint and cilantro into the dressing mixture.
4. Toss sliced cucumbers in the dressing until well-coated and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg