Healthy Easy Asian Cucumber Salad | Fresh 5 Minute Salad
Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish is one of those refreshing recipes that feels light yet full of flavor. The first time I made it, the crisp cucumber slices soaked up the sesame soy dressing and reminded me of summer picnics and backyard gatherings. The balance of tangy vinegar, nutty sesame oil, and just a hint of spice makes this salad more than just a side. It is a star on its own. If you love Asian cooking or are searching for health dinner recipes that fit into healthy meal prep, this dish is one you will keep making again and again.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thinly slice cucumbers using a knife or mandoline.
- Place cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly.
- In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or alternative), minced garlic, and optional ginger.
- Add the drained cucumber slices to the bowl and toss well to coat.
- Mix in red pepper flakes if desired for heat.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve chilled.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why you will love this healthy Asian cucumber dish
- Quick and simple with just a handful of ingredients.
- Perfect for clean eating or Чистое Питание with naturally light flavors.
- Easily turned into a cucumber edamame Asian salad for extra protein.
- Works well as a side for salad pasta, grilled meat, or even as part of a keto dessert balance menu.
- Inspired by sommer mad style meals where freshness takes the spotlight.
Ingredients for this cucumber salad
| Ingredient | Measurement | Substitution Tips |
| Cucumbers | 2 large | English or Persian cucumbers for best crunch |
| Rice vinegar | 1/4 cup | Apple cider vinegar if needed |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Choose low sodium for lighter taste |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | Essential for nutty flavor |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | Replace with honey or maple syrup |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced | Fresh garlic adds boldness |
| Ginger | 1/2 tsp, grated | Optional but adds warmth |
| Red pepper flakes | To taste | Optional for mild or spicy |
| Sesame seeds | For garnish | Toasted seeds for extra flavor |
How to make this cucumber dish step by step
- Slice cucumbers thinly with a knife or mandoline.
- Place slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit 15 minutes. Pat dry.
- In a bowl whisk vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Add cucumbers to the dressing and toss until coated.
- Mix in red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy.
How to serve this cucumber salad
Serve chilled alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or dumplings. Use it as the base for a cucumber edamame Asian salad by adding edamame beans and shredded carrots. Pair it with salad pasta for a more filling side. In summer, it makes the perfect sommer mad idea to bring to picnics or barbecues. It even fits neatly into healthy meal prep boxes for busy weeks.
Tips for perfect cucumber salad
- Always salt cucumbers first to prevent sogginess.
- Chill before serving to let the flavors develop.
- Toast sesame seeds for extra nuttiness.
- Swap sugar for honey for a clean eating option or Чистое Питание.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using cucumbers with thick skins that reduce crunch.
- Skipping the draining step which results in watery salad.
- Adding too much sesame oil which can overwhelm the flavor.
- Serving right away without chilling which reduces taste.
Storage and reheating instructions
This salad is best fresh but can be stored covered in the fridge for up to two days. Drain extra liquid before serving. Freezing is not recommended since cucumbers lose their crispness.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, prepare the cucumbers and dressing separately, then combine before serving.
Is this salad good for keto? Yes, replace sugar with a keto friendly sweetener and it becomes a great low carb side.
Can I make it into a meal? Add protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken and it becomes a light main dish.
Can kids enjoy it? Absolutely, just leave out the red pepper flakes for a mild version.
Conclusion
Healthy Asian cucumber dish is crisp, flavorful, and versatile. It is the perfect side for salad pasta, a refreshing option for sommer mad inspired meals, and a smart choice for healthy meal prep. Whether you enjoy Чистое Питание or need quick health dinner recipes, this cucumber salad will become a favorite. Save this recipe for later or share with friends who love simple yet vibrant dishes.
