Elevate your side dish game with this Oriental Marinated Cucumber Saladโa refreshing, flavor-packed recipe perfect for summer or any occasion. Thin slices of crisp cucumber are gently salted to enhance their natural crunch, then tossed in a zesty marinade featuring tangy rice vinegar, umami-rich soy sauce, nutty sesame oil, and a touch of honey for balance. Infused with bold notes of garlic and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, this salad is topped with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 15 minutes (plus marinating time), this Asian-inspired cucumber salad is ideal as a light appetizer, a side dish for grilled meats, or a vibrant addition to your next potluck spread. Healthy, versatile, and packed with flavor, this quick and easy dish will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Alternatively, you can use a mandoline slicer for even thickness.
Place the cucumber slices into a colander and sprinkle them with the salt. Toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water.
While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined.
Rinse the salted cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a large bowl, toss the dried cucumber slices with the prepared dressing until evenly coated.
Sprinkle sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions on top. Toss gently to combine.
Cover the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad one final stir. Serve chilled as a side dish or appetizer.
Calories |
356 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 20.2 g | 26% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.1 g | 16% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3538 mg | 154% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42.1 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.2 g | ||
| Protein | 10.9 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 177 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 3.8 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 1452 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.