If you’re looking for a fresh, light, and flavorful side dish that comes together in minutes, this easy Asian cucumber salad checks all the boxes. Crisp cucumbers are tossed with a tangy, savory dressing that brings a bright contrast to richer dishes, making it ideal for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
The star of this dish is, of course, the cucumber. You can use regular cucumbers or opt for Persian or English varieties, which have thinner skin and fewer seeds. Slicing them thinly, either with a knife or mandoline, helps absorb all the flavors of the dressing while keeping their satisfying crunch.
The dressing is where the magic happens. A simple blend of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar creates a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, while garlic brings in some depth. You can adjust the spice level to your liking or skip the heat altogether.
For texture and garnish, sprinkle in some toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. If you want a little more crunch, thinly sliced red onion or carrots make great additions. You can also chill the salad for 15–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and enhance the refreshing quality.
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled meats, noodles, stir-fry, or rice bowls. It’s also a great make-ahead option, as the cucumbers hold up well even after being dressed. In fact, the flavor gets even better the longer it sits.
What makes this cucumber salad stand out is its simplicity and bold taste. With just a few ingredients, you get a vibrant dish that’s light but satisfying. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or hosting a dinner party, this easy Asian cucumber salad will earn a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar unseasoned
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce low sodium
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons sugar optional
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic.
- Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat them well with the dressing.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
This is sooo refreshing! Perfect for summer. I loved it!
I don’t know about the sugar, isn’t that too sweet for a salad?
I thought the same at first, but the sugar really balances everything out! Give it a try.
Super easy and quick! I added some carrots for extra crunch!
Yummy! My kids even liked it. Will make again for sure!
That’s awesome to hear! Kids can be picky eaters, so it’s great they liked it. I’ll have to try this recipe too!
Ugh, cucumbers? Gross! Not my thing.
Cucumbers are amazing! They add such a fresh flavor to salads. You might change your mind if you try this recipe! 😍
I don’t get why people don’t like cucumbers. Just try it without the skin, it can be different!
Wasn’t a fan. It tasted weird to me, maybe I added too much garlic?
This salad is perfect when you’re low on time. Thx for sharing!
Looks easy, but doesn’t vinegar make cucumbers soggy? Not sure about this.
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s one of my go-to recipes when I’m in a rush.
Wait, isn’t this just a fancy way of saying pickles? Very confusing.
I don’t get y all the fuss on this. It was ok but not as great as people say!
I think it’s all about what you’re used to! This salad has such a fresh taste, but I get that it might not wow everyone. Maybe try adding some extra ingredients next time?
This salad was a hit at my BBQ! Super refreshing and easy to make. Will definitely be making it again!
I dunno… cucumbers? Not my fav. But I guess it could be good for some folks.
Sounds delicious! I love adding a little bit of ginger to mine. Have you tried it that way?
I followed the recipe exactly but it was too sour for me. Maybe less vinegar next time? 🤔
Cucumbers r boring. Added some carrots for crunch but still didn’t do much for me. Just not my thing.
Had no sesame oil so used peanut oil instead. Came out fine but I think it would have been better with the right ingredients. Just saying!
Whaaaat?! This is sooo simple and delicious! Who knew cucumbers could be this good? 😍
Right? I was surprised too! It’s such a refreshing dish for summer. 🍽️
Super quick and easy! I made it in 5 minutes flat, perfect for a side dish. Yumm!