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Crunchy Cucumber Salad – Easy 10-Minute Rice Vinegar Recipe

crunchy cucumber salad - featured image

A quick and easy cucumber salad with a tangy rice vinegar dressing, perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Ready in under 10 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for salting cucumbers
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about ⅛ inch thick.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, toss gently, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk or shake until sugar dissolves.
  4. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately.
  5. Rinse salted cucumbers under cold water, shake off excess water, and pat dry with a clean towel.
  6. Transfer dried cucumbers to a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat. Add toasted sesame seeds and toss again.
  7. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions just before serving.

Notes

Do not skip salting the cucumbers—it prevents a watery salad. For best flavor, let the salad rest 10-15 minutes before serving. Can be made up to 2 hours ahead; keep cucumbers and dressing separate until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, rice vinegar salad, easy side dish, quick salad, summer salad, Asian cucumber salad