How to do Asian cucumber salad?

Making a classic Asian cucumber salad is all about simplicity and bold flavor. Start by thinly slicing or smashing cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work best). Toss them with rice vinegar , soy sauce , a pinch of sugar , and minced garlic or ginger . For extra flavor, add sesame oil or red pepper flakes . Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soak in the dressing and mellow their bite. This preparation inspired the base of the cucumber element in our pasta salad, contributing its refreshing tang and crunch.

Can you use cucumber in chicken salad?

Absolutely. Cucumber brings a crisp, cooling texture that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken. In this Asian Cucumber Chicken Pasta Salad , cucumber does more than offer texture—it balances the richness of the pasta and chicken with a refreshing edge. Unlike heavier ingredients like mayonnaise or cream-based sauces, cucumber lightens the overall flavor. To prevent excess moisture, remove seeds from the cucumber or pat the slices dry before tossing. It’s a smart, healthy addition that works especially well in fusion salads like this one.

What are the ingredients for Asian chicken salad dressing?

The essential ingredients for a flavorful Asian chicken salad dressing include: Rice vinegar – adds acidity and brightness Low-sodium soy sauce – brings umami and salt Olive oil – offers smooth texture and depth Sugar – balances the salt and acid Minced garlic & ginger – add warmth and aromatics Optional ingredients include sesame oil , lime juice , or chili paste to customize the profile. This dressing ties the whole salad together, making each bite zesty, savory, and vibrant without being overpowering.

What to have with Asian cucumber salad?

When served as a side, Asian cucumber salad pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled chicken , spicy shrimp rice bowls , or steamed dumplings . Because this particular recipe combines cucumber with pasta and chicken, it’s already a complete meal. However, it shines alongside light, Asian-inspired sides like spring rolls , miso soup , or edamame . For a quick complementary pairing, try it with this Sesame Noodle Salad or flavorful Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls , which bring similar notes and textures to the table.

Asian Cucumber Chicken Pasta Salad – 10-Minute Powerful Refresh

Description

Asian Cucumber Chicken Pasta Salad blends juicy chicken, pasta, and crisp cucumber in a bold, tangy Asian dressing—ready in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

20 oz cooked grilled chicken breast strips
2 cups spiral pasta (uncooked)
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, minced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 medium cucumber, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 cup julienned carrots
1 medium red or yellow bell pepper, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped
Fresh spinach leaves (for serving)

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Instructions

Cook the spiral pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled chicken strips, mushrooms, cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, and onion.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.
To serve, arrange a layer of spinach leaves on each plate and spoon the pasta salad on top.