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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe with Easy Sesame Ginger Dressing

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A light and refreshing Asian cucumber salad featuring a flavorful sesame ginger dressing that balances tangy, sweet, and umami notes. Perfect for quick meals and warm weather.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers. Slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. If using regular cucumbers, peel and scoop out seeds before slicing.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a colander or bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss gently and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. While cucumbers rest, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake well until honey dissolves completely.
  4. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze or pat the cucumbers dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove the released water.
  5. Transfer cucumbers to a serving bowl. Add sliced green onions and cilantro leaves (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
  6. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Salting cucumbers is essential to remove excess water and keep the salad crisp. Use fresh ginger for best flavor. Toast sesame seeds until golden and fragrant but not burnt. Dressing can be made ahead and stored separately. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Variations include adding fresh chili for heat or avocado for creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame ginger dressing, fresh salad, quick salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/fresh-asian-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-easy-sesame-ginger-dressing/