Sesame Cucumber Salad

Sesame Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together crisp cucumbers with a delightful sesame dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil creates an irresistible tangy taste that enhances the freshness of the cucumbers.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Light and Refreshing: With minimal ingredients, this salad offers a burst of fresh flavors that are perfect for warm weather.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, serve it at potlucks, or enjoy it as a healthy snack on its own.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili paste to suit your spice preference, allowing you to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh cucumbers and healthy fats from sesame oil, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Sesame Cucumber Salad simple and fun. Let’s take a look at some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bowl
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing the cucumbers and dressing evenly.
• Colander: This helps remove excess water from the cucumbers after salting, keeping them crispy.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the cucumbers, enhancing their presentation.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6-8 mini Persian cucumbers
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to your own taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (I like to use half black, half white)

How to Make Sesame Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Slice the mini Persian cucumbers using a rolling cut method to create different angles. This enhances their texture and appearance.
2. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt. Mix well to ensure all slices are coated.
3. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture while keeping them crispy.
4. After 30 minutes, pour out any excess water and rinse off the salt using a colander.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In the bowl with rinsed cucumbers, add minced garlic, sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fish sauce, toasted sesame oil, and chili paste.
2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the cucumbers are well coated in the dressing.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoy your homemade Sesame Cucumber Salad within two days for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Sesame Cucumber Salad

Sesame Cucumber Salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Refreshing Appetizer

• Start your meal with a light and crispy cucumber salad. Its refreshing taste prepares your palate for the main course.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• The crunch of the salad contrasts beautifully with smoky grilled meats. Serve it alongside chicken, pork, or beef for a delightful meal.

On Top of Rice Bowls

• Add this salad to rice bowls for an extra layer of flavor. It provides a fresh and zesty touch that enhances the overall dish.

With Asian Noodles

• Toss sesame cucumber salad with cold Asian noodles for a satisfying lunch. The flavors meld together wonderfully, creating a complete meal.

As a Side for Tacos

• Use this salad as a topping for tacos. It adds crunch and tanginess, perfect for balancing spicy fillings.

With Sushi Rolls

• Enjoy sesame cucumber salad as a side with sushi rolls. Its lightness complements the richness of sushi beautifully.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Sesame Cucumber Salad

To make the best Sesame Cucumber Salad, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh cucumbers: Fresh mini Persian cucumbers will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the spice: Modify the chili paste based on your heat preference. A little goes a long way!
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge enhances flavors and makes it extra refreshing.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding sliced radishes or scallions for added crunch and flavor.
• Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better after marinating for several hours, so prepare it in advance when possible.
• Serve cold: For maximum freshness, always serve this dish chilled.

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Cucumber Salad

When enjoying Sesame Cucumber Salad, consider complementing it with these delightful side dishes.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection complement this fresh salad.
2. Teriyaki Salmon: Sweet and savory teriyaki-glazed salmon pairs well with the crispness of the cucumbers.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy spring rolls add another layer of freshness to your meal.
4. Edamame Beans: These protein-packed snacks are easy to prepare and offer a satisfying bite alongside your salad.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort while balancing out the coolness of the cucumber salad.
6. Quinoa Fried Rice: This hearty side brings in unique flavors that pair well with sesame dressing.
7. Spicy Garlic Tofu: Crispy tofu tossed in garlic sauce adds an exciting kick to your meal.
8. Rice Paper Rolls: Filled with shrimp or veggies, they make an excellent addition to any Asian-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sesame Cucumber Salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Choose mini Persian cucumbers for their crunch and sweetness. Other varieties may become mushy.
• Skipping the salting step: Salting the cucumbers draws out excess moisture, keeping them crisp. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili paste. Customize the spice to suit your taste preferences.
• Serving immediately after mixing: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: To maintain freshness, consume within 2 days and store properly in an airtight container.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep the flavors intact and prevent spoilage.
• This salad stays fresh for up to 2 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Sesame Cucumber Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as cucumbers lose their crispness when thawed.

Reheating Sesame Cucumber Salad

• Oven: Not suitable for reheating; serve cold.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; enjoy it fresh from the fridge.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad is best served chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sesame Cucumber Salad.

What makes Sesame Cucumber Salad healthy?

This salad is low in calories and packed with fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Can I make Sesame Cucumber Salad vegan?

Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.

How can I customize my Sesame Cucumber Salad?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch. Experiment with different herbs too!

How long does Sesame Cucumber Salad last?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. After that, it’s best to make a fresh batch.

Final Thoughts

Sesame Cucumber Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Give it a try at your next gathering or as a light meal option!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Sesame Cucumber Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sesame Cucumber Salad is a delightful fusion of crisp Persian cucumbers and a tangy sesame dressing, making it the perfect addition to your summer meals. This refreshing dish combines the umami flavors of soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and toasted sesame oil, resulting in a vibrant salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish, this salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Customizable to suit your spice preference, it brings a burst of fresh flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy this guilt-free salad with grilled meats, on rice bowls, or even as a healthy snack on its own.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6–8 mini Persian cucumbers
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to your own taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (I like to use half black, half white)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Slice the mini Persian cucumbers using a rolling cut method for enhanced texture and presentation.
2. Toss the sliced cucumbers with kosher salt in a bowl and let them rest for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3. Rinse the cucumbers in a colander and combine them with minced garlic, sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fish sauce, toasted sesame oil, and chili paste in the bowl.
4. Mix well to coat the cucumbers evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 75
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg