Asian Cucumber Salad
Asian Cucumber Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that is perfect for warm days. It brings together crisp cucumbers and zesty flavors, making it a great addition to any meal. You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light snack. This salad is easy to make and can be ready in just a few minutes.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s very healthy and low in calories, making it suitable for anyone watching their diet. Second, it’s quick to prepare, so you can whip it up anytime. Lastly, this salad is versatile; you can make it spicy or keep it mild based on your preference. Plus, the flavors are so refreshing, you’ll want to make it again and again!
How to Make Asian Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar or honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes or chili oil (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Directions
- Chop Veggies: Combine the chopped cucumbers and thinly sliced onions in a bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, and chili oil (if using).
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions and mix well. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Chill: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How to Serve Asian Cucumber Salad
You can serve Asian Cucumber Salad as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood. It also pairs nicely with rice and other Asian dishes. For an extra twist, serve it on top of mixed greens for a delightful lunch.
How to Store Asian Cucumber Salad
To store the salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It is best consumed within 1-2 days for the freshest taste. The cucumbers may release some water, so give it a good stir before serving again.
Tips to Make Asian Cucumber Salad
- Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch.
- If you like a bit more heat, add more chili flakes or chili oil.
- Letting it chill in the fridge not only enhances the flavors but also makes it extra refreshing.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and crunch. You can also include proteins like shredded chicken or tofu to make it a more complete dish.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
3. Can I use different types of vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly.
