Name: Best Asian Cucumber Salad : Fresh Side Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best); 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice); 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for balance); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

If you’re looking for a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful side dish, this Asian Cucumber Salad is a must-try! Made with crisp cucumbers, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, this cold Asian recipe is packed with umami and spice, making it the perfect complement to rice bowls, grilled meats, or noodle dishes.

Whether you’re searching for a Chinese cucumber salad recipe, a spicy smashed cucumber salad, or an easy Asian side dish, this garlic cucumber salad is simple, delicious, and ready in just 10 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

Light & Refreshing – Crisp cucumbers with a tangy, savory dressing.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 10 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Cold & Crunchy – A great make-ahead dish for hot summer days.
Versatile & Customizable – Adjust the spice, sweetness, or texture.
Pairs Well with Everything – Great alongside grilled meats, noodles, or rice bowls.

Ingredients for Asian Cucumber Salad

2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best)
1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for balance)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this spicy cucumber salad, you’ll need:

Cutting board & knife
Mixing bowl
Mortar & pestle (if smashing cucumbers)
Whisk (for dressing)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Asian Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and trim the cucumbers.
If making a smashed cucumber salad, use a rolling pin or the side of a knife to gently smash the cucumbers until slightly broken but still whole.
Slice into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, then drain excess water.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and honey.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Expert Tips for the Best Asian Cucumber Salad

Use fresh, firm cucumbers – Persian or English cucumbers work best for crunch.
Smashing cucumbers – Releases their natural juices and helps absorb more flavor.
Want it spicier? – Add sriracha or more red pepper flakes.
For extra crunch – Toss in crushed peanuts or crispy shallots.
Make it tangier – Increase the rice vinegar for a sharper taste.

Fun Variations of Asian Cucumber Salad

Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad – Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and a dash of fish sauce.
Chinese Garlic Cucumber Salad – Add chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns.
Thai-Inspired Cucumber Salad – Use lime juice, Thai basil, and chopped peanuts.
Sweet & Savory Cucumber Salad – Add mango slices for a refreshing twist.

How to Store & Keep Cucumber Salad Fresh

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Drain excess liquid before serving to keep it crunchy.
Do not freeze – Cucumbers lose their texture when frozen.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

Serve chilled for maximum freshness.
Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
Use as a topping for rice bowls or noodle dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cucumber Salad

Skipping the salting step – Helps remove excess moisture and enhances crunch.
Overdressing the salad – Too much liquid can make cucumbers soggy.
Using the wrong cucumbers – Avoid thick-skinned varieties like standard American cucumbers.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Asian Cucumber Salad

Spicy Korean BBQ beef (bulgogi)
Thai peanut noodles or pad Thai
Crispy sesame tofu or teriyaki salmon
Dumplings or spring rolls

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! But dress it right before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.

2. Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but peel and remove seeds for the best texture.

3. Can I use a different vinegar?
Yes! Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar work as substitutes.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Asian Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, easy, and flavorful dish perfect for summer meals, quick lunches, or an Asian-inspired side dish. Whether you love spicy cucumber salads, smashed cucumber salad Asian style, or easy recipes using cucumbers, this dish is a guaranteed hit!

Try this garlic cucumber salad recipe today and share your results! Tag us on social media and subscribe for more quick Asian food recipes!

Best Asian Cucumber Salad : Fresh Side Dish

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Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful side dish, this Asian Cucumber Salad is a must-try!

Author: Lyndy kitchen
Prep Time: 10
Total Time: 10
Category: appetizer
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale

2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best)

1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated ginger

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for balance)

1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)