Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and Easy, this Asian Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish or appetizer for so many meals. Made with delicious Asian spices, this easy cucumber salad is light, fresh, and healthy.

Although this has been traditionally thought of as a summer salad, we are able to enjoy this fresh cucumber salad during the entire year since cucumbers are readily available year round in the local supermarket. Cucumbers are in season during the summer, so you are more likely to see a better variety of cucumbers at that time.

Why This Recipe Works?

• Light and Refreshing.
• Simple recipe that takes minutes to prepare.
• Gluten-free.
• Uses just a few fresh ingredients.
• Kid Friendly.
• Perfect side dish or appetizer.
• Make ahead salad.
• The Best Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe ever!!!

Main Ingredients

This recipe uses super easy ingredients that can be purchased from a local grocery store if they are not already in your kitchen. Read the Recipe Card for the measurements.

• Fresh Cucumber – We use English cucumbers as they readily available year round, but you can also use Persian cucumbers or mini cucumbers.
• Scallions – Add a sharp, somewhat-spicy, peppery flavor.
• Chili Paste – Is made up primarily of red chilies, salt, and vinegar, and this combination of ingredients provides a slightly sweet, tangy, spicy flavor. Note: Some brands of chili paste contain gluten so please check the label before using if you need this recipe to be gluten-free. You can substitute Sriracha or red pepper flakes here if you prefer.
• Fish Sauce – This aromatic Asian condiment adds a salty and umami flavor to this tasty salad. If you don’t have fish sauce available or if you prefer, you can substitute soy sauce.
• Sesame Seed Oil – Adds a nutty and earthy taste, but only a small amount is needed due to its distinct and strong flavor. You can substitute olive oil here if you prefer.
• Red Onion – Adds color, crispness, and a delightful mild flavor.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides a sweet and sour component, helping to make this an amazing Asian Cucumber Salad!

How to make Easy Asian Cucumber Salad:

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

• On your cutting board, thinly slice the cucumber, scallions and red onion; chop the cilantro, mince and smash the garlic with the back of the knife; squeeze the lime juice and set aside.

• Add the cucumber, scallions, red onion and cilantro to a large bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, add the minced and smashed garlic, freshly squeezed lime juice, sesame seed oil, rice vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, salt and chili sauce.
• Whisk together to combine. 

Step 3: Mix and Marinate

• Add the dressing to the cucumbers and gently mix to incorporate.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. 

• Serve this crunchy asian cucumber salad topped with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.

This cucumber salad pairs well with our Baked Char Siu Chicken, Baked BBQ Tofu, Honey BBQ Drumsticks or Teriyaki Salmon.