Some dishes bring a breeze of freshness to your table, even on the hottest of days. I still remember the first time I tasted this crunchy, tangy cucumber salad with a hint of heat—it was at a little neighbor’s gathering back in the summer of ’72. Since then, it’s been a staple in my kitchen when the family craves something cool, vibrant, and full of flavor. This Asian cucumber salad is a comforting classic with a spicy twist—and oh honey, it’s easier to make than a pot of tea!
🥗 Why You’ll Love This Salad
This recipe is crisp, spicy, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing. Perfect for hot afternoons, picnic tables, or beside your favorite rice bowl. It’s naturally low in calories, packs a punch with flavor, and can be prepped in under 10 minutes.
If you’ve got cucumbers and a few pantry staples, you’re halfway there!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2–3 Persian cucumbers (or English cucumber)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
👩🍳 How to Make Grandma’s Asian Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Slice and Salt
Thinly slice your cucumbers into rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water, then gently squeeze them in a clean towel.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Toss the cucumbers in the dressing. Let sit in the fridge for 20 minutes (or overnight if you have time). Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Serve chilled as a side dish or refreshing snack. It pairs perfectly with rice, grilled meats, or tofu.
🌿 Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad
Asian cucumber salad is not just flavorful—it’s filled with nutrition. Cucumbers are rich in hydration, vitamin K, and fiber, while garlic and vinegar offer antibacterial and digestive benefits. Grandma always said, “Eat your greens and you’ll stay fresh as spring rain!”
🧠 Tips from Grandma’s Kitchen
- For extra crunch: Place cucumbers in the freezer for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Make it milder: Skip the red pepper if you’re sensitive to spice.
- Add freshness: Garnish with chopped cilantro or thin-sliced scallions.
❄️ Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The longer it marinates, the bolder the flavor becomes—but the crunch softens a bit, too!
🧓 Grandma’s Wisdom
“Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones you remember longest. This cucumber salad may be quick, but it’ll leave a lasting impression—just like your warmest smile.”
❓FAQ – Asian Cucumber Salad
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian?
Yes, but remove the seeds and peel if the skin is tough or bitter.
2. How do I make it sugar-free?
You can skip the sugar or use a drop of stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead.
3. Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
It’s naturally vegan. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a 100% gluten-free version.
