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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Rice Vinegar and Sesame

fresh asian cucumber salad - featured image

A quick and refreshing cucumber salad tossed with tangy rice vinegar dressing and toasted sesame seeds, perfect as a light side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium Persian or English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (maple syrup as alternative)
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and light green parts)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick using a mandoline or sharp knife. Scoop out seeds if watery or large.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), and minced garlic until smooth. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber slices and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Taste and add salt if needed, remembering soy sauce adds saltiness. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
  6. Optional: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Thin slicing cucumbers is key for the best texture. Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning. Use seasoned rice vinegar for balanced acidity. Adjust soy sauce and sweetness to taste. Salad is best eaten fresh or within 1-2 days refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, quick salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option