Crunchy Cucumber Salad

This Crunchy Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and crisp texture, it’s an ideal companion for potlucks, BBQs, and summer picnics. This salad stands out with its delightful balance of salty, sweet, and tangy notes, making it a refreshing choice on hot days. Not only is it gluten-free and vegan, but it also allows for endless variations to suit your taste!

PinPin

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in no time, making it a convenient option for busy days.
• Fresh and Crisp: The cucumbers’ crunch combined with the zesty dressing creates a revitalizing dish every time.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize this salad with different veggies or spices to suit your palate.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for sharing at potlucks or BBQs, this salad will impress your friends and family.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, this cucumber salad is a light yet satisfying option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the preparation of your crunchy cucumber salad, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife or mandoline
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Dry pan for toasting

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife or mandoline: Ensures even slicing of cucumbers for a perfect texture throughout the salad.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from cucumbers after sweating, preventing sogginess.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients and thorough mixing of the dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 11.6 oz cucumber (1 large; use low seed or seedless varieties with thin skin)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for sweating the cucumbers)
• 0.7 oz spring onion (3 stalks; or scallions)
• 0.1 oz ginger (1/2 Tbsp grated)

For the Dressing

• 1 Tbsp soy sauce (regular or low sodium; tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil (toasted)
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar, maple syrup/honey; use a sugar alternative if preferred)
• 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (toasted)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (or red pepper flakes, optional)
• 1 tsp chili paste (or chili oil, optional)

Pin

How to Make Crunchy Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Wash and dry the cucumber thoroughly. Thinly slice it using either a sharp knife or a mandoline to achieve even slices about 1/8-inch thick.

Step 2: Sweat the Cucumbers

Transfer the cucumber slices to a colander. Sprinkle them with salt and let them drain naturally in the sink for 30 minutes. This process helps reduce excess moisture.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

While waiting for the cucumbers to sweat, prepare the dressing. Grate the ginger and chop the spring onion. Combine these with soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, chili powder, and chili paste in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Toast Sesame Seeds

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast sesame seeds until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Add them to your dressing mixture.

Step 5: Combine Everything

After 30 minutes are up, pat dry the cucumber slices with paper towels. Then mix them thoroughly with your dressing in a bowl. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving for better flavor blending!

How to Serve Crunchy Cucumber Salad

Crunchy cucumber salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its refreshing flavors make it a delightful addition to various meals and occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your crunchy cucumber salad experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside fish tacos for a zesty touch.

In a Wrap

• Use as a filling in rice paper wraps for a light snack.
• Add to whole grain wraps with hummus and veggies for a healthy lunch option.

On Top of Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon over steamed rice or quinoa for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle with extra dressing for an enhanced taste.

As a Topping

• Use as a topping on your favorite Asian noodle dishes.
• Garnish rice bowls or poke bowls for extra freshness.

How to Perfect Crunchy Cucumber Salad

A perfect crunchy cucumber salad relies on the right techniques and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure yours turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right cucumbers – Opt for thin-skinned, low-seed varieties like Persian or English cucumbers for the best texture.
• Salt the cucumbers – Sweating them with salt helps remove excess moisture, keeping your salad crisp.
• Marinate adequately – Allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours to let flavors blend beautifully.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices enhance the overall flavor profile of your salad.
• Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins for variety and nutrition.
• Serve chilled – This salad is best served cold, making it perfect for hot summer days.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Cucumber Salad

Crunchy cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some delicious options that complement its fresh flavors.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a great protein pairing.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies create an enjoyable contrast.
3. Teriyaki Salmon – The sweet glaze of teriyaki salmon enhances the tanginess of the cucumber salad.
4. Rice Noodle Salad – A light rice noodle salad brings additional texture and flavors that harmonize well together.
5. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw featuring cabbage, carrots, and sesame adds more crunch to your meal.
6. Edamame Hummus – Creamy edamame hummus served with pita chips provides a unique dipping experience that pairs nicely.
7. Quinoa Pilaf – A flavorful quinoa pilaf with nuts and dried fruits adds depth to your meal while remaining light.
8. Spicy Tofu Bites – Crispy tofu bites seasoned with spices offer an exciting flavor contrast that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Crunchy Cucumber Salad, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Selecting high-seed cucumbers can lead to a soggy salad. Opt for seedless varieties like Persian or English cucumbers.
• Skipping the salting step: Not sweating the cucumbers can result in excess water in the salad. Always salt and let them drain for at least 30 minutes.
• Using too much dressing: Overdressing can mask the fresh flavors of the cucumber. Start with a little and add more if needed after marinating.
• Not allowing enough marination time: Skipping or shortening the marinating period means missing out on flavor development. Aim for at least 1-2 hours in the fridge.
• Neglecting texture: Failing to slice cucumbers evenly can lead to an unappealing texture. Use a mandoline for consistent, thin slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crunchy Cucumber Salad in an airtight container.
• It’s best consumed within one day for optimal crunchiness.
• If stored properly, it may last an additional day or two but may become soggy.

Freezing Crunchy Cucumber Salad

• Not recommended for freezing: Freezing can change the texture of cucumbers, making them mushy once thawed.
• For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerated leftovers instead.

Reheating Crunchy Cucumber Salad

• Oven: Not advisable as this salad is meant to be served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid using it; microwaving will make cucumbers limp and watery.
• Stovetop: Reheating is unnecessary; serve it chilled straight from the fridge!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Crunchy Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just ensure you store it properly in an airtight container.

What variations can I try with this salad?

Feel free to add different vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

How do I keep my salad from getting soggy?

Always sweat your cucumbers with salt before mixing them with other ingredients. This helps remove excess moisture.

Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Can I add protein to my Crunchy Cucumber Salad?

Yes! Adding beans or tofu can give you extra protein and fiber while keeping it deliciously crunchy.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Cucumber Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding various vegetables or proteins based on your taste preferences. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or just as a healthy side dish during summer, this recipe is sure to delight your palate. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful crunch!

Print

Crunchy Cucumber Salad

---

• Author: Leslie
• Total Time: 3 minute
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Crunchy Cucumber Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish perfect for any summer gathering. With its delightful combination of crisp cucumbers, zesty dressing, and an array of customizable ingredients, this salad is not only gluten-free and vegan but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, packing for a picnic, or simply looking for a healthy addition to your meals, this salad will impress with its balanced flavors of salty, sweet, and tangy. Enjoy the satisfying crunch while savoring the fresh taste that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large cucumber (11.6 oz)
• 3 stalks spring onion (0.7 oz)
• 1/2 Tbsp grated ginger (0.1 oz)
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• Optional: chili powder and chili paste

---

Instructions

1. Wash and slice the cucumber thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
2. Place the cucumber slices in a colander; sprinkle with salt and let them drain for about 30 minutes.
3. While the cucumbers sweat, mix together spring onion, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, chili powder, and chili paste in a mixing bowl.
4. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan until golden brown; add to the dressing.
5. After draining the cucumbers, pat them dry with paper towels and combine them thoroughly with the dressing. Allow marinating in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: None
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 100g
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added crunch and flavor variations, consider incorporating shredded carrots or bell peppers. Use Persian or English cucumbers for optimal texture. This salad is best served chilled; make it ahead of time for maximum flavor development.