Name: Asian Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint) for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. This Asian cucumber salad is the culinary equivalent of a wink from the fridge. It takes minutes, it crunches like the good kind of drama, and it somehow makes even weekday dinners feel like a tiny celebration.

This recipe works whether you want a quick side for grilled chicken or a crunchy solo snack while pretending to be on a diet. Ready to impress people without breaking a sweat? Let us do this.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

First, it practically makes itself. You toss a few things together, and suddenly your plate looks like a thoughtful adult created it. Second, it plays well with others. Serve it next to rice bowls, tacos, or even pizza and nobody will judge.

It also hits loads of textures and flavors. You get crisp cucumber, tangy vinegar, salty soy, and a little nutty crunch from the peanuts and sesame seeds. Best part No dramatic ingredients, no long lists, no culinary gymnastics. It is idiot proof, even I did not mess it up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 large cucumbers
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener
Salt to taste
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Fresh herbs (like cilantro or mint) for garnish

Yes that is it. If you own a knife and a bowl you already qualify as a professional. Tip Use really cold cucumbers for extra crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Spiralize or slice the cucumbers thinly.
In a large bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined.
Add the cucumber spirals to the dressing and toss to coat.
Season with salt to taste.
Transfer to a serving dish and top with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds.
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy as a side or main dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overdressing the salad. Nobody likes soggy cucumbers. Toss gently and add dressing slowly.
Skipping the salt. Salt unlocks flavor. Do not be shy.
Using warm cucumbers. Cold cucumbers keep the crunch. Chill them if you can.
Grinding the peanuts into dust because you had a rebellious mood. Keep the crunch.
Thinking you can swap every ingredient without consequence. Some swaps are fine but soy and rice vinegar kinda run the show here.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Want to play mix and match No problem. Try these swaps when you need a little variety or when your pantry is half asleep.

Soy sauce substitute Tamari works great if you want gluten free. I like tamari for a richer note.
Sugar substitute Honey or maple syrup keeps things natural. Use sparingly. FYI sugar balances the vinegar.
Nuts swap Use cashews or almonds if you hate peanuts or if a friend is allergic.
Oil swap If you do not have sesame oil, use a neutral oil and add a few drops of toasted sesame seeds for flavor.
Vinegar swap Lime juice adds a bright citrus twist if you want freshness instead of straight vinegar.
Want it spicy Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil or check out this spicy cucumber salad variation for full on heat.

My opinion Some swaps change the character of the salad. Fine for experimenting, but if you want the classic balance stick close to the recipe the first time.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q How long will the salad last in the fridge?
A A day or two is best. Cucumbers release water over time so the salad gets softer. Eat it fresh for the peak crunch.

Q Can I prep this ahead of time?
A Yes but keep dressing separate. Toss cucumbers with dressing right before serving to avoid sogginess.

Q Can I use English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers?
A Absolutely. English cucumbers are great for thin, uniform slices. Kirby cucumbers hold up well if you like a hearty crunch.

Q Can I make this vegan or gluten free?
A Yes. Use tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten free. Everything else is vegan unless your sweetener is not.

Q Need to peel the cucumbers?
A Not necessary. The skin adds texture and nutrients. Peel only if the skin is waxed or if you dislike it.

Q Can I bulk this up into a meal?
A Sure add shredded chicken, tofu cubes, or glass noodles. The salad plays nice with protein and carbs.

Q What if I do not like cilantro?
A Mint or Thai basil works beautifully. Swap herbs based on your mood.

Final Thoughts

This salad makes life easier in a tasty way. It takes very little effort and rewards you with crunch, tang, and a little party in your mouth. Keep it simple and let the fresh ingredients do the talking.

Go ahead and make it tonight. Invite someone over or just pretend you did. You earned a delicious, crunchy moment.

Conclusion

If you want more versions or inspiration check these recipes for variations and extra ideas. For a lovely riff try this Asian Cucumber Salad | Feasting At Home. For a simple, approachable take see Easy Asian Cucumber Salad – Farah J. Eats. And if you love heat, peep the spicy option at Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad – RecipeTin Eats.

Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills. You have earned it.