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
Slice Cucumbers
Using a sharp knife or mandolin, slice the cucumbers into thin, uniform rounds.
Time: PT5M
Place Cucumbers in Bowl
Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a large mixing bowl.
Time: PT1M
Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chili oil until smooth.
Time: PT3M
Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped green onion into the dressing, if using.
Time: PT1M
Combine Cucumbers and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Add Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it one final toss.
Time: PT1M
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
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
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Rice Vinegar: white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Soy Sauce: tamari
- Instead of Sesame Oil: vegetable oil (less flavor)
- Instead of Honey: agave syrup (vegan)
- Instead of Chili Oil: sriracha, red pepper flakes mixed with oil
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1/8 tsp)
- Instead of Green Onion: chives
Equipment Needed
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Small Bowl
- Spoon or Whisk
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- 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.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan for extra aroma.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want more heat beyond the chili oil.
- If you prefer a sweeter profile, stir in a pinch of sugar.
Troubleshooting
Cucumbers become watery.
Lightly salt the sliced cucumbers, let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess water before adding the dressing.
Dressing is too salty or too acidic.
Add a little more honey for sweetness or a splash of water to dilute; adjust gradually and taste.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become soggy.
Room temperature: Best served chilled; can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dressing a day ahead and store in a sealed jar.
- Keep cucumbers separate from the dressing until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Asian Cucumber Salad in Chinese and broader Asian cuisine?
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.
What are the traditional regional variations of Asian Cucumber Salad in Korean and Japanese cuisine?
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.
How is Asian Cucumber Salad traditionally served in Chinese households?
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.
What occasions or celebrations is Asian Cucumber Salad commonly associated with in Asian cultures?
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.
What other Asian dishes pair well with Asian Cucumber Salad?
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.
What makes Asian Cucumber Salad special or unique in Asian cuisine?
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.
How has Asian Cucumber Salad evolved over time in modern Asian cooking?
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.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Asian Cucumber Salad?
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.
Why does this Asian Cucumber Salad recipe use rice vinegar instead of regular white vinegar?
Rice vinegar provides a milder, slightly sweet acidity that complements the delicate cucumber without overpowering it, staying true to traditional Asian flavor profiles.
What does the YouTube channel Jose.elcook specialize in?
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.
How does the YouTube channel Jose.elcook's approach to Asian cooking differ from other Asian cooking channels?
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.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
