Save Pin A refreshing, vibrant cucumber salad tossed with Asian-inspired seasonings, sesame oil, and fish sauce for a savory, tangy kick—perfect as a side or light appetizer.
This salad became a staple at my summer gatherings after I experimented with Asian-inspired seasonings. Everyone enjoys how the sesame oil and fresh herbs make every bite lively and delicious.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Carrot: 1 medium, julienned
- Scallions: 2, finely sliced
- Cilantro: 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped
- Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon (use gluten-free if needed)
- Honey or sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 1 clove, finely minced
- Fresh ginger: 1 teaspoon grated
- Red chili: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Combine vegetables:
- In a large bowl, mix cucumbers, red onion, carrot, scallions, and cilantro.
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), garlic, ginger, and chili if using.
- Toss the salad:
- Pour the dressing over vegetables and toss well to coat.
- Marinate:
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
Save Pin This cucumber salad was the first dish my niece requested to help prepare. We laughed while slicing vegetables and adjusting the seasoning, and it quickly became a fun tradition.
Variations
Use vegetarian fish sauce or extra soy sauce to keep it plant-based. Add thinly sliced radish or bell pepper for more crunch and color.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the salad with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu for a complete meal. It's an ideal light lunch or picnic side.
Nutrition Info
Each serving contains about 75 calories, 4 g fat, 8 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein, making it a light but satisfying choice.
Save Pin This salad is an easy, healthy addition to your table, ready in minutes and packed with flavor. Enjoy every crunchy, zesty bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the fish sauce with a vegetarian alternative or use extra soy sauce for similar depth.
- → What vegetables work best in this salad?
Cucumbers are essential, but thinly sliced red onion, carrot, scallions, radish, or bell pepper add extra crunch and color.
- → How spicy is the salad?
The heat level depends on the amount of red chili used. Adjust to taste or omit for a milder option.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
You can mix the vegetables ahead and add dressing just before serving for maximum crispness and flavor.
- → What can I serve alongside this salad?
It complements grilled meats, seafood, or tofu wonderfully and can be served as a tangy light appetizer or side.
- → How do I keep it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and check all bottled sauces to ensure they meet gluten-free requirements.