Asian Cucumber salad before bed keeps the snack gremlin at bay.

Asian Cucumber salad before bed keeps the snack gremlin at bay. is a easy Asian recipe that serves 4. 60 calories per serving. Recipe by Jose.elcook on YouTube.

Prep: 19 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 24 min

Cost: $2.50 total, $0.63 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces Cucumber (thinly sliced with knife or mandolin)
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (provides bright acidity)
  • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (adds salty depth)
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (nutty aroma)
  • 1 teaspoon Honey (natural sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Oil (adjust to heat preference)
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (optional, toasted for extra crunch)
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced, optional)
  • 1 stalk Green Onion (chopped, optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice Cucumbers

    Using a sharp knife or mandolin, slice the cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Place Cucumbers in Bowl

    Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a large mixing bowl.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Prepare Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chili oil until smooth.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Add Aromatics

    Stir in the minced garlic and chopped green onion into the dressing, if using.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Combine Cucumbers and Dressing

    Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Add Sesame Seeds

    Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it one final toss.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Rest the Salad

    Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You may refrigerate during this time.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Serve

    Give the salad a final quick toss and serve chilled or at room temperature.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
60
Protein
1g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
3g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb

Allergens: Soy, Sesame, Honey

Last updated: April 14, 2026

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Asian Cucumber salad before bed keeps the snack gremlin at bay.

Recipe by Jose.elcook

A quick, tangy, and crunchy Asian cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a balanced rice‑vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chili oil dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side or light appetizer.

EasyAsianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
19m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
29m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.50
Total cost
$0.63
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Slice cucumbers thinly and uniformly.
  • Prepare dressing with the correct balance of acid, salt, sweet, and heat.
  • Toss cucumbers thoroughly to ensure even coating.
  • Allow the salad to rest so flavors meld.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully to avoid cuts.
  • Chili oil can be hot; handle with care and keep away from eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Asian Cucumber Salad in Chinese and broader Asian cuisine?

A

Asian cucumber salad, known as "凉拌黄瓜" in Chinese cuisine, is a classic cold dish served during hot summer months. It showcases the Asian culinary principle of balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, and is often served alongside rice or grilled dishes.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Asian Cucumber Salad in Korean and Japanese cuisine?

A

In Korean cuisine the dish appears as "Oi Muchim," which adds gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and a bit of fish sauce. Japanese versions, like "Sunomono," use rice vinegar, sugar, and sometimes seaweed, focusing on a milder sweet‑sour profile.

cultural
Q

How is Asian Cucumber Salad traditionally served in Chinese households?

A

It is typically served chilled as a side dish during family meals, especially in summer. The salad is presented in a small bowl, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sometimes a drizzle of extra chili oil for visual appeal.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Asian Cucumber Salad commonly associated with in Asian cultures?

A

The salad is popular at Lunar New Year feasts, summer barbecues, and as a refreshing accompaniment to heavy meat dishes during festivals. Its lightness balances richer mains.

cultural
Q

What other Asian dishes pair well with Asian Cucumber Salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with grilled teriyaki chicken, Korean BBQ short ribs, Chinese stir‑fried noodles, or a simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice. The crisp acidity cuts through rich, savory flavors.

cultural
Q

What makes Asian Cucumber Salad special or unique in Asian cuisine?

A

The dish highlights the Asian emphasis on texture and balance—crisp cucumber, nutty sesame, spicy chili oil, and bright acidity all coexist in a single bite, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

cultural
Q

How has Asian Cucumber Salad evolved over time in modern Asian cooking?

A

Modern versions often incorporate fusion ingredients like lime juice, cilantro, or even avocado. Home cooks also experiment with different chili oils and sweeteners, adapting the classic balance to personal taste.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Asian Cucumber Salad?

A

Common errors include slicing cucumbers too thick, which prevents the dressing from penetrating, and over‑salting the dressing. Also, letting the salad sit too long can make cucumbers soggy.

technical
Q

Why does this Asian Cucumber Salad recipe use rice vinegar instead of regular white vinegar?

A

Rice vinegar provides a milder, slightly sweet acidity that complements the delicate cucumber without overpowering it, staying true to traditional Asian flavor profiles.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Jose.elcook specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Jose.elcook focuses on quick, flavorful Asian-inspired home cooking, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize simple techniques and authentic taste.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Jose.elcook's approach to Asian cooking differ from other Asian cooking channels?

A

Jose.elcook emphasizes minimal equipment, everyday pantry ingredients, and clear visual cues, making traditionally complex Asian dishes accessible to beginners while still preserving authentic flavor balance.

channel

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