What type of cucumber is best for making Asian sesame cucumber salad?

The best cucumbers for Asian sesame cucumber salad are thin-skinned, burpless varieties such as Persian, English, or Japanese cucumbers. These cucumbers have fewer seeds, a crisp texture, and are less bitter, which enhances the salad’s freshness. Avoid waxy or thick-skinned cucumbers unless you peel them first to reduce bitterness and improve the overall flavor.

How do I make the sesame dressing for an Asian cucumber salad?

To make a simple sesame dressing, combine toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, a small amount of sugar or honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until evenly mixed. Optionally, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for mild heat. This dressing adds rich, nutty, and tangy flavors that complement the crisp cucumbers perfectly.

Can I prepare Asian sesame cucumber salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Asian sesame cucumber salad a few hours ahead of time. After slicing the cucumbers, toss them with the dressing and refrigerate. Letting the salad sit for 15–30 minutes helps flavors meld, but avoid longer than 4 hours as cucumbers may release too much water and become soggy. For best texture, add sesame seeds or fresh herbs just before serving.

What are some healthy benefits of eating cucumber salad with sesame?

Asian sesame cucumber salad offers several health benefits. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, promoting hydration. Sesame seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and important minerals like calcium and magnesium. The ginger and garlic in the dressing contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting digestion and overall wellness.

How can I make my Asian sesame cucumber salad more flavorful?

To boost flavor, try adding sliced scallions, fresh cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds as toppings. You can also include a splash of fresh lime juice for brightness or a touch of chili oil for heat. Adjust the soy sauce and vinegar proportions to balance saltiness and tanginess according to your taste preferences. These simple tweaks create a more vibrant and layered salad.

Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs 2024

Name: Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: – 1 1/2 pounds thin-skinned cucumbers (such as Turkish, Persian, or English varieties); – 1/2 teaspoon salt for tossing with cucumbers to release water; – 4 to 5 finely sliced scallions; – 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; – 1 finely minced garlic clove; – 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar; – 1 tablespoon soy sauce or a gluten-free alternative; – 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; – 1 tablespoon maple syrup or another sweetener; – 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or chili paste for a bit of heat; – 1 to 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds to finish the salad

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 pounds thin-skinned cucumbers (such as Turkish, Persian, or English varieties)

– 1/2 teaspoon salt for tossing with cucumbers to release water

– 4 to 5 finely sliced scallions

– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

– 1 finely minced garlic clove

– 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or a gluten-free alternative

– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

– 1 tablespoon maple syrup or another sweetener

– 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or chili paste for a bit of heat

– 1 to 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds to finish the salad

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1-First, take your 1 1/2 pounds of thin-skinned cucumbers and score them lengthwise with a fork for that extra texture boost. Slice them thinly, then toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their water. This simple step really makes a difference in the flavor and crunch, as mentioned in the recipe details.

2-Next, strain the cucumbers to remove the excess liquid, then mix in 4 to 5 finely sliced scallions, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 finely minced garlic clove. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce if you’re adding some spice.

3-Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and stir well, then sprinkle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds. Adjust for salt and sweetness as needed, and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🥢 Score and salt cucumbers before assembling to improve texture and flavor.
🌶️ Adjust heat with chili flakes or sriracha based on your preference.
🌿 Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra brightness.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Tossing and marinating
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 89 kcal
Sugar: 6.4 g
Sodium: 405 mg
Fat: 4.8 g
Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 11.5 g
Fiber: 1.4 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg