5 Minutes Cucumber Salad
5 MINUTES CUCUMBER SALAD 🥒 is a easy Chinese recipe that serves 2. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by TIFFYCOOKS on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $14.61 total, $7.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 large Cucumber (seedless preferred, washed and sliced into half‑moon pieces)
- 1 tsp Salt (regular table salt or kosher salt)
- 2 tbsp Sesame Dressing (store‑bought or homemade (soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar))
- 1 tsp Garlic Oil (infused oil, can substitute with minced garlic mixed into oil)
- 1 tsp Chili Oil (optional for heat; adjust to taste)
- 1 stalk Green Onion (thinly sliced, green parts only)
- 2 tbsp Cilantro (roughly chopped)
Instructions
Prepare the cucumber
Wash the cucumber, trim the ends, and slice it into half‑moon pieces about ¼‑inch thick.
Time: PT2M
Season with salt
Place the sliced cucumber in the mixing bowl, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt, and toss gently. Let it sit for 1 minute to draw out excess moisture.
Time: PT1M
Make the dressing
In a small separate bowl, combine 2 tbsp sesame dressing, 1 tsp garlic oil, and 1 tsp chili oil (if using). Stir until well blended.
Time: PT1M
Dress the salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salted cucumber, toss quickly to coat evenly.
Time: PT1M
Garnish and serve
Scatter the sliced green onion and chopped cilantro over the salad. Serve immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 80
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 5g
- Fat
- 5g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Sesame
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini, Japanese cucumber
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Low‑sodium salt
- Instead of Sesame Dressing: Tahini‑lemon dressing, Soy‑sesame vinaigrette
- Instead of Garlic Oil: Minced fresh garlic, Garlic‑infused olive oil
- Instead of Chili Oil: Sriracha, Red pepper flakes mixed with oil
- Instead of Green Onion: Chives, Scallions
- Instead of Cilantro: Thai basil, Parsley
Equipment Needed
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Small Spoon or Whisk
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Seasoning the cucumber with salt and allowing it to rest
- Balancing the sesame‑garlic‑chili dressing to taste
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a seedless cucumber for a smoother bite.
- Chill the cucumber and dressing before mixing for an extra refreshing salad.
- Toast sesame seeds lightly and sprinkle on top for added texture.
Troubleshooting
Cucumber becomes watery after salting.
After the 1‑minute rest, gently squeeze the cucumber slices in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture before adding dressing.
Salad is too salty.
Rinse the cucumber briefly under cold water, pat dry, and add a splash of extra sesame dressing to balance.
Dressing is too strong or spicy.
Add a little more sesame dressing or a drizzle of neutral oil to mellow the flavor; reduce or omit chili oil.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day; dressing may separate, stir before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become soggy.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but best served chilled.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Slice the cucumber and keep it salted in a separate bowl; drain before dressing.
- Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store in a small jar in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber salad in Chinese cuisine?
Cucumber salad, known as "凉拌黄瓜" (liángbàn huángguā), is a classic cold dish in Chinese home cooking, especially in northern and Sichuan regions. It provides a cool, crisp contrast to hot, spicy mains and is often served during summer months and family gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of Chinese cucumber salad across China?
In Sichuan, the salad is spicier with generous chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. In Shanghai, a sweeter version uses sugar and rice vinegar. Northern styles favor a simple salt‑and‑vinegar dressing, while coastal areas may add garlic oil and fresh herbs like cilantro.
How is cucumber salad traditionally served in Chinese meals?
It is typically served as a cold appetizer or side dish, placed on the table alongside hot dishes such as stir‑fry, dumplings, or braised meats. The salad is meant to be eaten with chopsticks and enjoyed in small bites between richer courses.
What occasions or celebrations is cucumber salad traditionally associated with in Chinese culture?
Cucumber salad appears at everyday family meals, but it is also common during Lunar New Year and summer banquet gatherings because its light, refreshing flavor balances richer festive dishes.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Chinese cucumber salad versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh cucumber, salt, sesame oil or sesame dressing, garlic oil, and chili oil for heat, plus green onion and cilantro for garnish. Substitutes can be rice vinegar for extra tang, toasted sesame seeds for texture, or a dash of soy sauce if sesame dressing is unavailable.
What other Chinese dishes pair well with this cucumber salad?
It pairs beautifully with dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Ma Po Tofu, steamed fish with ginger, fried rice, and noodle soups. The crisp acidity cuts through the richness of oily or spicy mains.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cucumber salad with sesame garlic chili dressing?
Common mistakes include over‑salting the cucumber, not letting the salt draw out excess water, and using too much chili oil which can overpower the delicate flavor. Also, dressing the salad too early can make it soggy; dress just before serving.
Why does this cucumber salad recipe use garlic oil instead of fresh minced garlic?
Garlic oil provides a smooth, evenly distributed garlic flavor without adding raw garlic bits that can become bitter. It also keeps the salad crisp and maintains the quick‑prep nature of the dish.
Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can slice and salt the cucumber up to 2 hours ahead; keep it in a covered bowl in the refrigerator. Store the dressing separately and combine just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS specialize in?
The YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS focuses on fast, everyday Asian-inspired home cooking, offering simple, budget‑friendly recipes that can be prepared in under 10 minutes.
How does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS' approach to Chinese cooking differ from other Chinese cooking channels?
TIFFYCOOKS emphasizes ultra‑quick, minimal‑ingredient dishes using pantry staples and shortcuts, whereas many other Chinese cooking channels often demonstrate more elaborate, traditional techniques and longer cooking times.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
