Description
Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish, often served as a side salad in Asian cuisine. The salad is typically made with thinly sliced cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and other crunchy vegetables like carrots and green onions. The dressing, which features the rich flavors of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger, ties the salad together beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, optional)
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers and slice them thinly. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them first.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with a little salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and chili paste (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Salad:
- After the cucumbers have released some moisture, drain and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red bell pepper, carrot, green onions, and cilantro (if using).
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving, if desired. Enjoy your refreshing Asian cucumber salad!
Notes
For extra crunch and flavor, top with chopped peanuts or toasted cashews just before serving. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, tofu, or as a refreshing side to spicy dishes. Keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best taste and texture!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing