Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad a Refreshing Summer Delight
Recipe Introduction: Get Your Chopsticks Ready!
Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate? This Asian cucumber salad recipe is just the ticket. It's got that perfect balance of zing, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.
Honestly, it's so good, you'll be making it every week!
Quick Hook
Ever wondered how to jazz up your boring old cucumber? This spicy cucumber salad will blow your mind. This recipe for asian cucumber recipe delivers fresh, bright flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy texture.
Brief Overview
This style of cucumber salad has its roots in Korean cuisine, known for its bold and vibrant flavors. We are going to be making the Korean cucumber salad that takes inspiration of this dish.
Originating from Korea, this Korean cucumber dish is a simple side that packs a punch. This is also a cucumber salad recipe easy to make at home.
It is also perfect if you want quick asian salad recipe . It's an easy recipe which will take no more than 15 minutes to whip up, plus a little chill time.
Aim for four servings, ideal as a side for your next barbecue or as a light lunch option.
Main Benefits
One of the biggest draws? It's packed with refreshing goodness. This Refreshing Summer Salad is low in calories but full of flavor.
Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, or bring it to a potluck it's always a hit. This salad is special because it’s incredibly versatile, and a great way to use up all those cukes.
Let's get down to business, then. Here's what you'll need.
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Best Asian Cucumber Salad
Right, let's talk ingredients! This Asian cucumber salad recipe is all about fresh, simple flavours. It's dead easy, honestly. I've made this a squillion times.
You'll be wondering why you didn't start making your own sooner! It is the perfect quick asian salad recipe . Let's get started.
Main Ingredients: The Nitty Gritty
Alright, here's what you need. Don't skimp on quality, especially the cucumbers!
- Cucumbers: 2 large English cucumbers (about 1 lb or 450g ). Thinly sliced. Quality indicator? They should be firm and green, not soft or yellowing.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup (30g) . Sliced super thinly. The thinner the better, you know?
- Cilantro: 2 tablespoons (10g) . Freshly chopped. If you're not a fan, parsley will do in a pinch.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon (6g) . Toast 'em yourself for the best flavour!
Dressing: The Secret Sauce
- Rice Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Essential for that Asian tang!
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Low sodium is best, unless you like it mega salty.
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Adds that nutty, aromatic flavour. Don't skip this.
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Or maple syrup if you're vegan!
- Fresh Ginger: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Grated finely. Adds a lovely zing.
- Garlic: 1 clove . Minced. About 1 teaspoon .
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon . Or more, if you like it spicy! This spicy cucumber salad is a winner!
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
The secret to a great Asian cucumber recipe ? Balance. The sweetness of honey, the saltiness of soy, the tang of vinegar, and the heat of chili.
Don't be afraid to adjust to your taste! Experiment with this sesame cucumber salad !
Flavor enhancers? Fresh ginger and garlic are your best friends. As for spice combinations, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes are a classic for a reason.
No rice vinegar? White wine vinegar will do, but the flavour will be slightly different. I would strongly suggest you get the rice vinegar, you know?.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing everything together.
- Small Mixing Bowl or Jar: For the dressing. A jar's easier for shaking!
- Whisk or Fork: For mixing the dressing.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Obvious, innit?
- Vegetable Peeler: Optional. If your cucumber skins are thick, give 'em a peel.
Honestly, this is all you really need. No fancy gear required. This cucumber salad recipe easy is! You can make it at home with your eyes closed, or even while you watch the Great British Baking Show.
This is a refreshing summer salad for sure.
Cooking Method: Making the Perfect Asian Cucumber Salad
Right then, let's talk about making an Asian Cucumber Salad . It's dead easy, honestly! And it's so much better than a soggy lettuce leaf.
Think of it as a proper palate cleanser, perfect with your Saturday BBQ. This isn't just any Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy ; it's your new go-to!
Prep Steps: Sorted Before You Start
First, mise en place , as they say in fancy restaurants. Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Slice 2 large English cucumbers thinly.
Red onion, 1/4 cup , needs to be thinly sliced too. Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro. Toast your sesame seeds ( 1 tablespoon ) watch them closely, they burn faster than you can say 'biscuit'! Safety wise? Just don't chop your fingers!
step-by-step Process: Easy Peasy
- Slice the cucumbers. A mandoline makes it quicker, but a knife works fine.
- In a big bowl, mix those cucumbers with the red onion and cilantro.
- Whisk together your dressing: 1/4 cup rice vinegar , 2 tablespoons soy sauce , 1 tablespoon sesame oil , 1 tablespoon honey , 1 teaspoon ginger , 1 clove garlic , and a pinch of red pepper flakes ( 1/4 teaspoon ).
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mix.
- Toss gently.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This is important! It lets the flavours mingle like old mates at the pub.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Pro Tips: Chef's Secrets Revealed
- Sprinkle salt on sliced cucumbers. Leave for 15 minutes . Rinse and pat dry before adding to the salad to avoid soggy cucumber - honestly, don't skip this step, it's a game changer!
- Always taste and adjust the dressing. Bit more spice? Add more red pepper flakes! Need more sweetness? Another drop of honey.
- You can easily make the dressing a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and shake well before using. It saves time, you know?
Honestly, this Asian Cucumber Recipe is so simple. You'll be whipping up this Refreshing Summer Salad all summer long. And it goes perfect with some Japanese flavours, like a delicious Japanese Cucumber Salad .
You can easily make it Spicy Cucumber Salad by just adding more pepper flakes. And if you are a fan of Korean Cucumber , try adding a little Korean Cucumber paste on top.
And that's it! Enjoy your homemade Sesame Cucumber Salad !
Recipe Notes: Cracking the Code to the Best Asian Cucumber Salad
Right, so you're ready to whip up this Asian Cucumber Salad . Ace! Let's talk through a few things to make sure it’s absolutely banging.
Honestly, it's dead simple, but a few tips and tricks never hurt, right? Here's what I've learned, and what you need to know to make sure your Spicy Cucumber Salad is top-notch.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Cucumber Game
Presentation matters, innit? Plating this Asian Cucumber Recipe doesn't need to be posh. Pile it high in a nice bowl, sprinkle extra Sesame Cucumber Salad seeds on top, and boom, done.
For sides, this salad screams for grilled anything. I'm talking salmon, chicken, or even some cheeky halloumi. Fancy a bevvy? A crisp, dry white wine or even a cold lager would be perfect.
You know? Whatever tickles your fancy.
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh, Keep it Real
Right, so you've got leftovers of this cracking Korean Cucumber Salad . Pop it in an airtight container, and it'll keep in the fridge for up to two days.
Honestly, it's best eaten fresh, but it's still good the next day. Don't even think about freezing it, though. The cucumbers will go all soggy and weird.
Nobody wants that. When reheating, give it a good toss to redistribute the dressing.
Variations: Mix It Up, Mate!
Feeling adventurous? You can easily adapt this Japanese Cucumber Salad to suit your dietary needs. Go vegan by swapping the honey for maple syrup.
BOOM! Done. Fancy a bit more heat? Throw in some extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha.
This Quick Asian Salad Recipe is your canvas!
Want to go full Korean? Add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chilli paste) to the dressing for a fiery flavour.
If you can't find English cucumbers then try with Korean Cucumber , which has a slightly sweeter flavour.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so this Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy isn't just tasty; it's pretty good for you too. Roughly, you're looking at around 80 calories per serving.
Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers are mostly water, so it's super hydrating. Just watch the sodium levels if you're using regular soy sauce.
Low sodium is your mate. Overall, this is a genuinely Refreshing Summer Salad !
So there you have it. Everything you need to know to smash this recipe out of the park. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Now get cooking, you legend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Asian cucumber salad ahead of time? Will it get soggy?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, like a good cup of stew left overnight. To avoid a soggy salad, try salting your cucumber slices for about 15 minutes before assembling the salad. This draws out excess moisture.
Rinse them off and pat them dry before tossing them in the dressing.
What's the best way to store leftover Asian cucumber salad?
Store any leftover Asian cucumber salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best consumed within 1-2 days, as the cucumbers will continue to release moisture. Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing, and don't be surprised if the dressing seems a bit thinner.
It's still perfectly delicious!
I don't have rice vinegar. Is there a good substitute for this Asian cucumber salad?
No worries, mate! If you're out of rice vinegar, white wine vinegar makes a decent substitute, although the flavour profile will be a little different a bit more assertive. You could also use apple cider vinegar in a pinch, but use it sparingly and taste as you go, since it has a sweeter tang.
Lemon or lime juice can also work but again, use it sparingly.
Can I customize the level of spice in this Asian cucumber salad recipe?
You bet! The red pepper flakes are there to give it a gentle kick, but feel free to adjust them to your liking. If you're after a bit more of a punch, you can add a small amount of finely chopped fresh chili or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
For a truly fiery flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the dressing.
Is there a vegan version of this Asian cucumber salad recipe?
Certainly! The only adjustment you'll need to make is swapping the honey for a vegan friendly sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. This simple substitution ensures that everyone can enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salad. Double check your soy sauce is gluten-free if needed.
Zesty Asian Cucumber Salad A Refreshing Summer D
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 80 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
