This refreshing Japanese cucumber salad is super easy to make! It features crunchy cucumbers, a little rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil that makes it unique and tasty.
I love how quick this dish comes together—it’s great for snacking or as a side for dinner. Plus, it’s so good you may just want to eat it straight from the bowl! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Japanese cucumbers are the best for this salad as they’re crunchy and have fewer seeds. If they’re not available, you can use English cucumbers, but consider peeling them for a better texture.
Rice Vinegar: This gives the salad its tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but adjust the quantity as they can be stronger.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you have a sesame allergy, try using a light olive oil or avocado oil instead, though the flavor will change slightly.
Sugar or Honey: The sweetness is optional, but it balances the vinegar’s acidity. Maple syrup can also work if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Properly Prepare Cucumbers for This Salad?
Properly preparing the cucumbers makes a big difference in texture and flavor. Follow these simple steps:
- Wash the cucumbers well to remove any dirt. If you’re using English cucumbers, peeling them can give a smoother bite.
- Use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to slice them thinly. This increases the salad’s crunchiness and helps the dressing soak in.
- Salting the cucumber slices is key! It draws out excess moisture, preventing the salad from becoming watery. Just let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes.
- After sitting, gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any remaining water; this step is crucial for the best texture.
With these tips, your cucumber salad will be fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy making it!
Easy Healthy Japanese Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large Japanese cucumbers (or English cucumbers)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional for slight sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional chilling time of 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under running water. With a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer, slice the cucumbers very thinly into ribbons or rounds. This helps them soak in the dressing better and keeps the salad crunchy.
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Next, place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Toss the slices gently to cover them evenly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture and prevents the salad from becoming watery.
3. Remove Excess Water:
After 10 minutes, take the cucumbers and gently squeeze them in your hands or with a paper towel to remove any remaining moisture. This will ensure your salad stays crisp and fresh.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar or honey (if using). Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved.
5. Combine Cucumbers and Dressing:
Add the squeezed cucumber slices to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything well until all the cucumber slices are coated with the dressing.
6. Add Sesame Seeds:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad for some extra flavor and crunch. Toss gently once more to mix.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the best taste, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Serve it fresh as a light side dish or alongside your favorite Japanese meals.
Enjoy this crisp, tangy, and lightly nutty Japanese cucumber salad that’s both healthy and super easy to prepare!
FAQs About Easy Healthy Japanese Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Yes, if you can’t find Japanese cucumbers, English cucumbers are a great substitute! Just peel them if you prefer a smoother texture. Regular slicing cucumbers will work as well, but they may be more watery, so be sure to salt and squeeze out moisture well.
How Can I Adjust the Dressing to My Taste?
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to add a little more sugar or honey. For a tangier flavor, increase the rice vinegar slightly. You can also add a splash of lime juice for extra zest!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cucumbers and dressing ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the cucumbers’ crunch. Once combined, the salad is best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To refresh the salad, you might want to give it a quick toss before serving again.
