Pin It 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.
Every summer, I reach for this cucumber salad remix when temperatures climb and I crave something crisp and refreshing. It always disappears fast at any picnic or barbecue I bring it to.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 1 medium carrot, julienned, 2 scallions, finely sliced, 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Dressing: 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)
- Garnish: 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Mix Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, carrot, scallions, and cilantro.
- Prepare 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 Together:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
- Let Flavors Meld:
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Finish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
Pin It My kids love this salad, especially when I make it extra mild and serve it alongside grilled chicken skewers. Sharing it at family gatherings always means coming home with an empty bowl!
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, whisk or fork
Allergen Information
Contains fish (fish sauce) and soy (soy sauce). Sesame seeds and sesame oil may trigger allergies. Check all sauces for gluten if gluten-free is required.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 75, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 8 g, Protein: 2 g
Pin It This quick salad brightens up any plate and gives every meal a refreshing, healthy twist. Try it as a light lunch or a colorful party side!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Which type of cucumbers work best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture and mild flavor, but any large cucumbers may be used.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and chill up to two hours in advance. Add sesame seeds right before serving for best texture.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Use more or less fresh chili, or omit it. Sriracha or red pepper flakes also work for extra heat.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives to fish sauce?
Replace fish sauce with a vegetarian fish sauce or additional soy sauce for a meat-free option with deep flavor.
- → What proteins pair well with this dish?
It complements grilled chicken, seafood, tofu, or even tempeh, making a balanced meal for different diets.
- → How can I make it gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free soy sauce and check ingredient labels to ensure all components are free of gluten.