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.
I love preparing this cucumber salad for family picnics because it comes together quickly and always disappears fast. The bold dressing makes it especially popular at spring gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers: thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion: thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot: julienned
- 2 scallions: finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro: chopped
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil:
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce:
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: use gluten-free if needed
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar:
- 1 garlic clove: finely minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger:
- 1 small red chili: thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, carrot, scallions, and cilantro.
- Make Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), garlic, ginger, and chili if using.
- Toss Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
- Meld Flavors:
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
Pin This salad is now a staple at our weekend barbecues. Even kids love picking out their favorite veggies!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cucumber salad with grilled meats, seafood, or crispy tofu for a light and balanced meal. Try it tucked into lettuce wraps for a crunchy snack.
Nutritional Information
Each serving delivers about 75 calories, 4 g fat, 8 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Recipe Variations
Swap carrots for thinly sliced radish or bell pepper, or use vegetarian fish sauce for a meatless version.
Pin Tangy, crisp, and packed with flavor, this cucumber salad adds freshness to any meal. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Allowing the vegetables to marinate improves flavor, but add sesame seeds just before serving for crunch.
- → What can I substitute for fish sauce?
Use vegetarian fish sauce or extra soy sauce for a fully vegetarian option without sacrificing savory depth.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and check all dressing ingredients to ensure compatibility with gluten-free requirements.
- → How do I control spice level?
Simply adjust or omit the red chili to tailor the heat to your taste, or swap in mild bell pepper for extra crunch.
- → Which proteins pair well with this salad?
This fresh side complements grilled meats, seafood, or tofu, making it versatile for many main courses.
- → Are there ingredient variations I can try?
Thinly sliced radish, bell pepper, or even snap peas add color and texture; cilantro can be swapped with mint for herbal brightness.