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Salads are a staple in Asian cuisine, celebrated for their vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and health benefits. Among the myriad of salad options available, the Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad stands out as a refreshing dish that captures the essence of Asian culinary traditions. This salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile; it can be served as a side dish complementing main courses or enjoyed as a light, nutritious meal on its own.

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Discover a refreshing Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad that's perfect for any meal! This easy recipe combines thinly sliced cucumbers with a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, all balanced with honey or maple syrup. Add a touch of spice with chili garlic sauce, and finish with sesame seeds, green onions, and cilantro. Ideal as a side dish or light lunch, this salad is both delicious and vibrant! Quick to prepare, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!

Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

1/4 cup rice vinegar

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional, for spice)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

2 green onions, chopped

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. If they are particularly watery, you can sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), chili garlic sauce (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.

      Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss gently in the dressing until all pieces are well coated.

        Sprinkle sesame seeds over the cucumber salad and toss again to distribute evenly.

          Taste and adjust salt and sweetness if desired. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

            Just before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4