Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame
A quick, refreshing, and crunchy Asian cucumber salad with a nutty sesame dressing, perfect as a light side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large English cucumbers (about 500g / 1.1 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (15ml)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml), low-sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml)
- 1 teaspoon honey (5ml)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (18g)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, 1g)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (about 30g)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers thinly into rounds about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick using a sharp knife or mandoline. Place slices in a mixing bowl.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle in the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions, then toss again to combine.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch or chill for 15-30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
Use English cucumbers for best texture. Toast sesame seeds fresh every time for maximum flavor. Salt cucumber slices lightly and drain if salad turns watery. Adjust salt after tossing. Red pepper flakes are optional for mild flavor. Can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6 of the rec
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: Asian cucumber salad, sesame cucumber salad, refreshing side dish, crunchy salad, quick cucumber salad, sesame dressing, easy side dish