Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it also brings a burst of fresh flavors with every bite. The balance of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, aromatic sesame oil, and a spicy touch from the red pepper flakes makes this cucumber salad irresistible. Plus, the roasted peanuts offer a delightful crunch, adding texture to the lightness of the cucumbers. Whether you’re looking for a cool side dish for a summer meal or a refreshing snack, this Asian cucumber salad will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (store-bought works too)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• ¼ teaspoon salt (add more to taste depending on how salty the soy sauce is)

• 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (English cucumbers work well)

• 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish

Directions

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and salt to taste.

2. Slice the cucumbers and place them in a large salad bowl.

3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat them evenly.

4. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the salad.

6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes (including refrigeration)

Variations

• Milder flavor: For a less tangy salad, reduce the amount of rice vinegar in the dressing.

• Extra crunch: Add additional chopped roasted peanuts or even toasted sesame seeds for more texture.

• Cucumber variations: While English cucumbers are commonly used, you can also try Persian cucumbers for a slightly different texture or even a mix of both.

• Vegetarian option: For a plant-based twist, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Storage/Reheating

This cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that as it sits, the cucumbers will release moisture, which may make the salad a bit watery. To prevent this, you can drain the excess liquid before serving. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, you can toss them with fresh dressing and chopped peanuts to revive the flavors.

FAQs

How long should I refrigerate the cucumber salad before serving?

For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the dressing soak into the cucumbers.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes! While rice vinegar is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time, but it’s best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain its crunch and freshness.

How can I make this salad less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, you can decrease the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Certainly! Thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes could add extra flavor and crunch.

Can I use unsalted peanuts?

Yes, if you use unsalted peanuts, you may need to adjust the amount of salt in the dressing to suit your taste.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or another neutral oil, though the flavor will be different.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I make this salad without garlic?

While garlic adds a nice depth of flavor, you can skip it if you prefer a milder taste.

How do I store leftover salad?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

This Asian cucumber salad is a simple yet delicious dish that brings a refreshing twist to any meal. With its combination of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors, and a crunchy texture from the peanuts, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion. Quick to prepare and perfect for warm weather, this salad will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!