Go Back
–+ servings
Easy Asian cucumber salad with sesame seeds in a light soy-based dressing served in a white bowl.
Callie Brooks

Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish

This crisp, refreshing cucumber salad is dressed in a savory sesame-soy vinaigrette with hints of garlic, ginger, and red pepper. Light, vibrant, and quick to prepare, it’s perfect for picnics, summer meals, and clean eating menus.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 60
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian preferred)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger (optional)
  • to taste red pepper flakes (optional)
  • salt (for draining cucumbers)
  • toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Equipment

  • knife or mandoline
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • serving dish

Method
 

  1. Thinly slice cucumbers using a knife or mandoline.
  2. Place cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar (or alternative), minced garlic, and optional ginger.
  4. Add the drained cucumber slices to the bowl and toss well to coat.
  5. Mix in red pepper flakes if desired for heat.
  6. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
  7. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve chilled.

Nutrition

Calories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1gFat: 3.5gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 290mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.4mg

Notes

Salt the cucumbers first to remove excess moisture and preserve crunch. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor. Add edamame or shredded carrots to turn this into a protein-packed salad. Toast your sesame seeds for added nuttiness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!