Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Name: Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 5 Persian cucumbers; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil; 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce; 1/2–1 tbsp sugar (to taste); 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp chili oil; 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds; 1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)

Jack Ellison

Update : March 7, 2026

Bowl of Easy Asian cucumber salad with fresh ingredients and vibrant colors

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why make this recipe

This salad is fast, fresh, and light. It uses simple ingredients you can find in most stores. It cools you down on a hot day and adds a bright side dish to any meal. It also takes little time and no cooking.

introduction

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad is a quick mix of crisp cucumbers, a tangy soy‑vinegar dressing, sesame oil, and a touch of chili. You salt the cucumbers first to pull out extra water, then toss them with the dressing. The result is crunchy, savory, and a little spicy.

how to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Slice the cucumbers at an angle so each piece looks oval. Cut to the thickness you like.
Put the slices in a bowl or container and sprinkle 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well.
Chill the cucumbers in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to draw out water.
Drain the water and quickly rinse the cucumbers for about 10 seconds. Return them to the bowl or container.
Add 1/2 tbsp sesame oil, 3/4 tbsp light soy sauce, 1/2–1 tbsp sugar (see notes), 3/4 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp chili oil, 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds, and 1/2 tbsp minced garlic if you like.
Stir everything until well mixed. Serve right away and enjoy.

Ingredients :

5 Persian cucumbers
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tbsp sesame oil
3/4 tbsp light soy sauce
1/2–1 tbsp sugar (see notes)
3/4 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp chili oil
1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
1/2 tbsp garlic (minced, optional)

Directions :

Rinse and slice one end of the cucumber at an angle.
Continue slicing at an angle. Slices should look more oval than round. Thickness is up to your preference.
Add to a bowl or container and sprinkle 1/2 tsp of salt.
Mix that well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to draw out the water.
Drain the water and give the cucumbers a quick 10 seconds rinse before returning them back to the bowl or container.
Add sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame seeds, and garlic.
Stir until well combined and serve. Enjoy!

how to serve Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It goes well with rice, grilled chicken, tofu, or noodle dishes. Use it as a side, a light snack, or part of a picnic spread.

how to store Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat within 2 days for best crunch. Before serving again, stir and drain any excess liquid.

tips to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Slice the cucumbers at an angle for better texture and looks.
Salt and chill them to keep the salad crisp.
Taste the dressing and adjust sugar from 1/2 to 1 tbsp to match your sweetness preference.
If you like less spice, use less chili oil or leave it out.
Dry the cucumbers well after rinsing to avoid a watery salad.

variation (if any)

Add thinly sliced scallions or a few cilantro leaves for fresh flavor.
Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger nutty taste.
Swap chili oil for a mild chili flakes and sesame oil mix if you prefer less heat.
Add a small splash of lime juice for extra brightness.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian?
A: Yes. Peel and remove seeds if the cucumbers are large, then slice as directed.

Q: Is the garlic required?
A: No. Garlic is optional. The salad is good without it.

Q: How long before serving can I make this?
A: You can make it a few hours ahead. It stays best for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Q: Can I make this without soy sauce?
A: You can use a low‑sodium soy sauce or a gluten‑free tamari if needed.

Q: Will the cucumbers get soggy?
A: They stay crisp if you salt and chill them, then drain well before adding the dressing.

Conclusion

For another simple version of this salad with step‑by‑step photos, see Easy Asian Cucumber Salad – Farah J. Eats. For more ideas and a different dressing style, try Asian Cucumber Salad | Feasting At Home.