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Fresh Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Sesame Ginger Dressing

fresh asian cucumber salad - featured image

A refreshing and flavorful Asian cucumber salad tossed with a homemade sesame ginger dressing that balances sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes. Perfect for warm weather and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (about 1 pound / 450g), thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, roughly chopped for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (about 1/2-inch piece)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Juice of half a lime (about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the English cucumbers well. Using a sharp knife, slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Place the slices in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of salt over the cucumber slices and toss gently. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain any liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated fresh ginger, honey, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and lime juice until well combined and fragrant.
  4. Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all slices. Add the sliced green onions (white parts first) and toss again.
  5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro over the salad. Add the green parts of the green onions on top for garnish. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving or serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh ginger for best flavor. Salt cucumbers and drain to avoid watery salad. Dress salad just before serving to keep it crisp. Can substitute honey with maple syrup for vegan option. Add chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch. Store cucumbers and dressing separately in fridge; consume dressed salad within 8-12 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Asian salad, sesame ginger dressing, fresh salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad