Sesame Cucumber Salad

Short description

A fresh and crunchy salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a flavorful sesame-soy dressing. This dish is light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare
Requires minimal, everyday ingredients
Customizable with spicy, sweet, or savory variations
Pairs well with a variety of main dishes
Perfect for meal prep or a quick snack
Naturally vegan and gluten-free with simple swaps
Refreshing and hydrating, especially in hot weather
No cooking required
Beautiful presentation with garnishes
Great for picnics, potlucks, or lunchboxes

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cucumbers (English or Persian recommended)
Toasted sesame oil
Rice vinegar (seasoned or unseasoned)
Soy sauce or tamari
Salt
Sesame seeds (white, black, or a mix)

directions

Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Optional: Toss the cucumber slices with a pinch of salt and let sit for 20–30 minutes to release excess moisture. Drain well.
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a small pinch of salt.
Toss the cucumber slices in the dressing until evenly coated.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and any optional garnishes like scallions or red pepper flakes.
Chill until ready to serve, or enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Optional draining time: 20–30 minutes
Total time: 10–40 minutes depending on draining preference

Variations

Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili oil
Sweet twist: Mix in a teaspoon of sugar, honey, or maple syrup
Garlicky flavor: Add finely minced garlic or ginger
Protein addition: Top with grilled tofu, shrimp, or chicken
Asian-inspired: Use lime juice and crushed peanuts for a Thai-style spin, or gochujang and cilantro for a Korean twist
Crunch boost: Add thinly sliced radishes or carrots

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days
The flavors deepen with time, though the cucumbers will become softer
Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing
Best served chilled; not suitable for reheating

FAQs

1. What type of cucumbers should I use?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skins and minimal seeds.

2. Do I need to salt the cucumbers beforehand?

Salting is optional but helps remove excess moisture and keeps the salad from becoming watery.

3. Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, but for best texture, store the cucumbers and dressing separately until just before serving.

4. How long does this salad stay fresh?

It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, though the texture becomes softer over time.

5. Can I freeze this salad?

No, freezing is not recommended as cucumbers lose their crispness and become mushy.

6. Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.

7. What garnishes can I add?

Try sesame seeds, scallions, crushed peanuts, cilantro, or red pepper flakes for added flavor and texture.

8. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it is naturally vegan with plant-based ingredients.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—radishes, carrots, or thinly sliced bell peppers make great additions.

10. What dishes go well with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, rice bowls, stir-fries, sushi, and noodle dishes.

Conclusion

Sesame cucumber salad is a light, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite main course or enjoying it as a quick snack, this simple salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Customize it to your taste, store it easily, and enjoy a taste of freshness anytime.