Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian Cucumber Salad is one of those simple side dishes that can make dinner feel a little more special. Fresh, crunchy cucumber, a delicious Asian inspired dressing and less than 10 minutes is all you need!
Made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger, the dressing brings plenty of flavour to this light and refreshing salad.
We love it with our Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls, but it’s just as delicious with grilled chicken, fish or even my Satay Chicken Tenders. It’s a quick way to add some colour and crunch to dinner, with hardly any extra effort.
My Pickled Onions are another favourite to keep in the fridge over spring and summer. Add them to salads, burgers or wraps. They take a meal from bland to grand in an instant!
More salads to try this summer
If you’re looking for a little more salad inspiration, here are a few favourites to add to your menu:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in less than 10 minutes: An easy little side to make, even on busy nights.
Simple ingredients: An Asian-inspired dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger.
Hardly any effort: No cooking required, just slice, toss and serve!
Top Tips
Slice the cucumber evenly so every piece gets a little of that delicious dressing.
For the best crunch, toss the cucumber with the dressing just before serving.
If you’re preparing ahead, keep the cucumber and dressing in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What to Serve with Asian Cucumber Salad
We love this salad with our Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls, but it’s also delicious with Satay Chicken Tenders, grilled fish or barbecue chicken. It’s a handy little side when dinner needs something fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Asian cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! Slice the cucumber and mix the dressing ahead of time, then refrigerate them separately. Toss together just before serving to keep the cucumber crunchy.Why does my cucumber salad become watery?
Cucumber releases water after it’s mixed with the dressing. Dressing the salad close to serving time helps keep it fresh and crunchy.
Looking for more dinner ideas?
My Easy Weeknight Dinners recipe eBook is full of simple, family-approved meals for those nights when everyone’s hungry and you’ve run out of ideas.

Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian cucumber salad recipe combines crisp cucumbers with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic and ginger for a quick 10-minute side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken, fish and rice bowls.
Ingredients
- 250g pack Qukes (or cucumbers)
- 2–3 cm fresh ginger, grated (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tablespoon white rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- Pinch chilli flakes (optional)
- Garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Slice the Qukes or cucumbers into thin slices, roughly 5mm thick and place them in a bowl.
- Add the grated ginger, crushed garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, sriracha and chilli flakes (if using).
- Gently stir until the cucumbers are well coated in the dressing.
- Alternatively, whisk the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl before pouring over the cucumbers.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
Top Tips:
- Use Qukes: These small cucumbers stay extra crisp and have fewer seeds, making them perfect for cucumber salads.
- Slice evenly: Try to slice the cucumbers roughly the same thickness so they absorb the dressing evenly.
- Adjust the heat: Add a little extra sriracha if you like a spicier salad or leave it out for a milder version.
- Serve fresh: This salad is best served soon after making so the cucumbers stay crisp.
- Make it ahead: If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
48Fat
1 gSat. Fat
0 gCarbs
8 gFiber
2 gNet carbs
6 gSugar
4 gProtein
1 gSodium
283 mgCholesterol
0 mgThe nutritional information provided is computer generated and is only an estimate. This data is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only.



