Asian Cucumber Salad

A cool, refreshing side that pairs with just about anything

This Asian Cucumber Salad is crisp, vibrant, and ready in minutes. Perfect as a light side alongside grilled meats, noodles, rice bowls, or simply eaten on its own as a refreshing snack. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and full of tangy, salty, slightly sweet flavour.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers – about 4–5 cups thinly sliced (English, Persian or Japanese cucumbers are best)

• Rice vinegar – brings bright acidity

• Soy sauce or tamari – for savoury depth

• Sesame oil – a touch for nuttiness

• Fresh ginger & garlic – grated/minced for punch

• Maple syrup or honey – to balance the acidity

• Scallions – thinly sliced

• Toasted sesame seeds – for garnish

• Salt + pepper – to taste

Note: Asian cucumber salad is quick to throw together and much better when the cucumbers stay crunchy. Choose thin-skinned cucumbers so you can leave the skin on, and slice them thinly so they absorb the dressing evenly.

Method

1. Prepare the cucumbers Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons. Place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle a little salt over them and toss. This helps draw out excess water so the salad stays crisp.

2. Make the dressing In a small bowl whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic and maple syrup or honey until smooth.

3. Combine Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add the sliced scallions and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

4. Rest & serve Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and a crack of black pepper.

Tips & Variations

• Chill before serving - This salad tastes even fresher when slightly chilled.

• Add heat - A pinch of chili flakes or a splash of chili oil pairs beautifully with the cool cucumbers.

• Extra texture - Toss in some chopped peanuts or thinly sliced radish for crunch.

• Make-ahead - Keep the dressing separate and toss it with cucumbers just before serving to prevent sogginess.

This Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect example of simple ingredients coming together for big, bright flavour. Cool, tangy, and crisp on the palate. Serve it with grilled meats, noodles, or as part of a larger spread. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.