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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Tangy Rice Vinegar Dressing

fresh asian cucumber salad - featured image

A refreshing and tangy Asian cucumber salad featuring a crisp texture and a balanced rice vinegar dressing, perfect for warm weather and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice 2 large English cucumbers into rounds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
  2. Place cucumber slices in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Toss gently and let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Gently squeeze the cucumbers with your hands or a clean kitchen towel to remove released moisture.
  4. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar or honey, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger if using. Whisk or shake until sugar dissolves.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add 2 thinly sliced green onions and 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving chilled.

Notes

Salting and draining cucumbers is key to avoid sogginess. Toast sesame seeds for best flavor. Dressing can be made ahead and combined just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp. Use tamari for gluten-free and maple syrup or agave for vegan substitutions. Optional additions include red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian cucumber salad, rice vinegar dressing, fresh cucumber salad, tangy salad, easy salad recipe, summer salad, gluten-free salad, vegan salad