Cucumber Salad Asian Sesame

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 first made this salad for friends during a summer barbecue. Everyone enjoyed how the bold and refreshing flavors paired perfectly with grilled dishes.

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: seasoning for dressing
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: adds nutty flavor
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce: savory depth
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce: use gluten-free if needed
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar: sweetener
• 1 garlic clove: finely minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: aroma and heat
• 1 small red chili: thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: garnish

Instructions

Combine 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.

Let flavors meld:

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes.

Garnish and serve:

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.

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My family loves this salad at picnics. Even picky eaters scoop second helpings!

Allergen Information

Contains fish (fish sauce) and soy (soy sauce). Sesame seeds and sesame oil may trigger allergies. Always verify sauces for gluten if gluten-free is needed.

Required Tools

Sharp knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, whisk or fork make prepping this salad easy.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides about 75 calories, 4 g total fat, 8 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.

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Serve chilled for maximum crunch and freshness. Perfect alongside spicy dishes or stuffed in wraps.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute fish sauce with vegetarian fish sauce or extra soy sauce to keep the flavors vibrant and suitable for vegetarians.

→ How do I keep cucumbers crunchy?

Slice cucumbers just before mixing and avoid letting them sit too long in the dressing to preserve their crisp texture.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to ensure the entire dish is suitable for gluten-free diets.

→ What can I serve alongside?

This salad complements grilled meats, seafood, or tofu, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

→ Can spice level be adjusted?

Yes, use more or less chili pepper depending on your preference for heat, or omit it for a milder flavor.