Asian Cucumber Salad Sesame (Printer-Friendly)

Crisp cucumbers with sesame and rice vinegar create a refreshing and tangy side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced

→ Dressing

03 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
04 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
05 - 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
06 - 1 teaspoon sugar
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
10 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

→ Garnish

11 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
12 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
13 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

# How To Make It:

01 - Place sliced cucumbers in a large bowl, sprinkle with sea salt, and toss to combine. Let sit for 5 minutes to extract excess moisture, then gently squeeze and drain the liquid completely.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper until sugar dissolves completely.
03 - Pour dressing and green onions over cucumbers, then toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Transfer to serving bowl and top with toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, and red pepper flakes.
05 - Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes to enhance flavor development before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with zero cooking required
  • Crisp, refreshing cucumbers perfectly complement rich or spicy main dishes
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free when made with tamari
  • The tangy sesame-ginger dressing is addictively flavorful
  • Minimal ingredients deliver maximum taste and texture
02 -
  • Use a mandoline for perfectly uniform cucumber slices
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level
  • Double-check condiment labels for hidden allergens if serving guests with dietary restrictions
  • For best flavor, let the salad chill briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld
  • Store leftover dressing separately if making ahead to keep cucumbers crisp
Go Back