Discover the refreshing taste of Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal addition to busy weeknight meals or summer barbecues. With its crisp cucumber slices, zesty dressing, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this salad is a wonderful way to add a burst of freshness to your table.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 320mg
Why Make Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing offers numerous health benefits, thanks to the freshness of cucumbers and the wholesome ingredients in the dressing. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making this salad a great choice for hydration and weight management. Additionally, the combination of sesame oil and soy sauce provides healthy fats and umami flavor, making for a balanced dish that’s bursting with tasty goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can complement any main course, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.
How to Make Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing Step by Step
Ingredients
4 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, finely chopped
Directions
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly. Remove seeds from larger cucumbers for extra crunch. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined. In a large mixing bowl, toss cucumber slices with the dressing until evenly coated. Top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions; toss gently to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
How to Serve Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light summer meal. It also works great as a refreshing side dish alongside rice or noodle dishes. For a complete picnic platter, serve it alongside other salads, such as a quinoa salad or a hearty grain bowl, to create a colorful and diverse meal.
How to Store Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it taste even better the next day. However, freezing is not recommended, as cucumbers will lose their crisp texture once thawed. Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a quick snack!
Expert Tips for Cooking Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
- Choose firm cucumbers for maximum crunchiness.
- For added spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha into the dressing.
- Use a mandoline for perfect thin cucumber slices every time.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t skip the chilling step, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Delicious Variations of Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Try adding sliced radishes for an extra kick of flavor and color. For a herbed version, incorporate fresh cilantro or mint to give it an aromatic touch. If you prefer a citrusy twist, squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the salad just before serving to enliven the dish even more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Is this cucumber salad gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce, you can make this salad gluten-free.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! Just be sure to add the sesame seeds and green onions right before serving for the best texture and freshness.
What type of cucumber is best for this recipe?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Conclusion
Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing is a must-try recipe, bringing simplicity and flavor together beautifully. Encourage your friends and family to enjoy this light, crunchy salad that is as versatile as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a vibrant dish sure to impress at any gathering!
Asian-Style Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups cucumbers, thinly sliced Choose firm cucumbers for maximum crunchiness.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar Experiment with different types of vinegar for varied flavor.
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds Add just before serving.
- 2 green onions, finely chopped Add just before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly. Remove seeds from larger cucumbers for extra crunch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss cucumber slices with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions; toss gently to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
