How to do Asian cucumber salad?

Start by slicing English cucumbers thin and tossing them with kosher salt. Let them rest in a colander for 15 to 30 minutes to release moisture, then rinse and pat dry. In a separate bowl, whisk rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour this vinaigrette over the cucumbers, mix well, and top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Chill before serving to let the flavors develop. This method creates a crisp, vibrant, and flavor-packed salad in under 30 minutes.

What to have with Asian cucumber salad?

Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, pan-fried tofu, or rice noodles. It's also excellent alongside dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, or bento lunches. For a globally inspired plant-based plate, serve it next to a dish like Mediterranean white bean salad or include it in a picnic with other fresh sides. Its versatility makes it suitable for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Is the viral Asian cucumber salad healthy?

Yes — it's low in calories (74 per serving), fat, and added sugar, while offering hydration, fiber, and heart-healthy fats from sesame oil and seeds. Cucumbers provide potassium, vitamin K, and antioxidants, while ginger and garlic add natural anti-inflammatory benefits. Keep an eye on the sodium level, which can be adjusted by using tamari or low-sodium soy sauce. Overall, it's a nourishing choice that aligns well with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets.

How to prepare cucumber salad?

The best cucumber salads start by properly prepping the cucumbers — thin slicing, salting, and draining to reduce water content and enhance crunch. For dressing, balance is key: use vinegar or citrus for acidity, a bit of oil for richness, and aromatics like garlic or herbs for depth. In Asian-style cucumber salads like this one, toasted sesame oil and soy sauce build bold flavor. Letting the salad sit for 15–30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to infuse fully.

Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad: Refreshing, Healthy & Easy

Description

Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad is crisp, tangy, and healthy. Discover how to prepare this quick no-cook salad with bold Asian flavors.

Ingredients

- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette:

- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Toss the sliced cucumbers with kosher salt in a colander. Let them rest for 15 to 30 minutes to release excess moisture.
Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly, then pat dry using paper towels.
Transfer cucumbers to a large mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Pour the vinaigrette over the cucumbers and mix until evenly coated.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions on top.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Healthy Salad Recipes
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Asian-inspired