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Fresh Asian Cucumber Noodle Salad Recipe Easy Healthy Sesame Dressing

fresh asian cucumber noodle salad - featured image

A light, crunchy cucumber noodle salad tossed in a nutty, tangy sesame dressing, perfect for a quick, refreshing meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (seedless preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: fresh cilantro or mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumbers. Using a spiralizer or mandoline, create long, thin noodles from the cucumbers. Alternatively, use a vegetable peeler to peel thin strips lengthwise.
  2. Place the cucumber noodles in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, and toss gently. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. After 15 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumber noodles with your hands or press with paper towels to remove as much water as possible.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Place the cucumber noodles in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the noodles and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. Add fresh cilantro or mint if using.
  7. Refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and noodles to stay crisp.

Notes

Salting the cucumber noodles and letting them sit for 15 minutes is key to drawing out excess moisture and preventing sogginess. Use English cucumbers for less watery noodles. Toast sesame seeds at home for extra aroma and flavor. Adjust chili flakes to control heat. Refrigerate salad before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber noodle salad, Asian salad, sesame dressing, healthy salad, quick salad, gluten-free salad, vegan salad, low calorie salad