Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Let me tell you that the first time I made this Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe was on a sweltering afternoon. I didn’t feel like cooking but wanted something vibrant, light, and actually satisfying.

I had a few cucumbers in the fridge, some rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic. The result? A viral cucumber salad that my family now begs for at every get-together.

Cucumber salad is one of those simple dishes that can take on so many personalities — creamy, spicy, tangy, Asian-style, Greek-style.

Our go-to starts with crisp sliced cucumbers, tossed in a simple mix of vinegar, garlic, a touch of sugar, and sesame oil for that signature Asian cucumber salad kick.

It’s the kind of dish that goes viral for a reason: minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. No wonder it’s topping the charts as a viral cucumber salad on social media feeds.

Whether you’re after a creamy cucumber salad, a Japanese cucumber salad recipe, or something with a zesty vinegar-based punch, this recipe has it all.

Craving a little richness? Swap in yogurt or sour cream for a cool, creamy cucumber salad twist. Or try it with chili flakes and rice vinegar for a bold cucumber salad Asian style variation.

So whether you’re looking for a refreshing bite or a bold-flavored Asian cucumber salad recipe, this dish delivers easy, healthy, and always satisfying.

Cucumber Salad Ingredients

Rice Vinegar

• This is the tangy backbone of the dressing.
• Milder and slightly sweet compared to white vinegar, rice vinegar gives the salad a bright, clean acidity that balances out the creaminess of the yogurt and mayo.

Soy Sauce or Tamari (for gluten-free)

• Adds umami depth, saltiness, and a savory punch to the dressing.
• Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute with a similar flavor profile.

Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream

• This provides the creaminess.
• Greek yogurt is a healthy, high-protein base that gives body and tang.
• Sour cream adds more richness and a classic creamy texture, especially in Western-style cucumber salads.

Mayonnaise

• Used in small amounts to round out the creamy texture and add a smooth, indulgent mouthfeel.
• It binds the dressing and enhances richness without overwhelming the freshness of the salad.

Sesame Oil

• Just a few drops go a long way.
• Sesame oil adds an unmistakable toasted, nutty aroma that gives the dish its Asian cucumber salad character.

Garlic (minced)

• Aromatic and bold, garlic infuses the dressing with sharp, savory flavor.
• Fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Honey or Maple Syrup

• A touch of sweetness balances the vinegar and salt.
• It rounds out the flavor, especially if your cucumbers are a bit bitter or the vinegar is too sharp.

Black Pepper

• Adds mild heat and earthiness, enhancing the overall balance without overpowering any individual ingredient.

The Equipment Needed for Preparing Cucumber Salad Recipe

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork for dressing
• Colander or mesh strainer
• Paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth

The Health Benefits of Cucumber Salad Recipe

• Hydrating and cooling: thanks to cucumbers being made up of over 95% water, perfect for hot days, post-workout meals, or when your body needs a hydration boost.
• Low in calories: making it ideal for weight management, light snacking, or pairing with heavier dishes without adding bulk to your meal.
• Rich in antioxidants, especially from the cucumber skin, garlic, and any herbs like mint or dill. These compounds help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
• Supports digestive health: with fiber from cucumbers and natural probiotics from yogurt (in the creamy version), which aid in regular digestion and gut balance.
• Heart-healthy fats: from sesame oil and seeds, provide a small dose of unsaturated fats that support heart function and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
• Regulates blood sugar: especially when made without added sugars and dressed in a vinegar-based sauce, which may help lower glycemic impact.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: found in garlic, cucumbers, and herbs like cilantro or mint — all of which may help soothe internal inflammation naturally.
• Promotes skin health: thanks to the water content, vitamin C, and silica in cucumbers, which help hydrate skin and support collagen production.
• Gluten-free and low-carb: which makes this salad friendly for people with celiac disease, those on keto diets, or anyone trying to reduce processed grains.
• Boosts immunity: with garlic acting as a natural antimicrobial and yogurt (if used) offering beneficial probiotics that support gut and immune health.

Quick Tips for the Best Cucumber Salad Recipes

• Use English or Persian cucumbers — they’re less watery and more crisp.
• Salt first! It draws out moisture and keeps your salad from getting soggy.
• Adjust the dressing to suit your mood: creamy for indulgence, vinegar-based for a refreshing bite, spicy for a kick.
• Don’t overdress — cucumbers absorb fast. Add gradually and toss to coat.
• Chill for 10 minutes after mixing for max flavor infusion.

Conclusion

Whether you’re craving something light, healthy, and refreshing or you’re just looking for a quick side to round out your meal, this easy cucumber salad recipe is your new go-to.

It’s versatile enough to adapt — creamy, tangy, spicy, or Asian-inspired and simple enough to whip up in just 10 minutes.

With every crisp bite, you get a balance of flavor and texture that feels satisfying without being heavy. It’s the kind of salad that quietly steals the show at dinner, gets recipe requests at potlucks, and becomes your secret weapon when you want something healthy but crave-worthy.

So grab a couple of cucumbers, toss together that creamy garlic dressing or zesty vinegar mix, and enjoy the refreshing crunch of a dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

It might just become your new kitchen favorite — no oven, no stress, just deliciously fresh flavor every time.

Enjoy cooking!

✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.

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Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Author: Lia Agbor Cooking Method: Sauteing Cuisine: Asian, Chinese, Thai Courses: Appetizer, Dinner, Side Dish Recipe Keys: Gluten Free Keto Quick Meals Sugar Free Vegan

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins

Calories: 88

Best Season: Summer

Description

This easy cucumber salad recipe is crisp, refreshing, and loaded with bold Asian-inspired flavors. With crunchy cucumbers, a creamy sesame garlic dressing, and optional spicy or vinegar twists, this dish is perfect for summer barbecues, weekday lunches, or healthy snacking. Low-carb, gluten-free, and ready in 10 minutes, it’s your new go-to salad.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• For the Salad
• 2 large 2 English cucumbers or 5–6 small Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp salt (for drawing out water)
• 1 tbsp chopped scallions or red onion
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh herbs (dill, cilantro, or mint – optional)
• Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad Dressing
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (for creaminess)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

1. Salt and Sweat the Cucumbers

   • Thinly slice cucumbers and place them in a colander.
   • Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water.
   • This keeps your salad crunchy, not watery.
   Mark as complete

2. Make the Dressing

   • In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, yogurt, mayo, sesame oil, garlic, and sweetener.
   • Taste and adjust more vinegar for tang, more yogurt for creaminess.
   Mark as complete

3. Assemble the Salad

   • Pat cucumbers dry with a clean towel or paper.
   • Toss them in a bowl with scallions and sesame seeds.
   • Pour dressing over and toss gently.
   Mark as complete

4. Chill or Serve Immediately

   • Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes in the fridge to allow flavors to develop, or serve right away if you’re hungry!
   
   Mark as complete

5. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine.

   Mark as complete

6. Add the tomato sauce and cooked beans to the skillet and stir to combine.

   
   Mark as complete

7. Spread the bean mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the vegan cheese shreds and vegan parmesan cheese on top.

   Mark as complete

8. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

   Mark as complete

9. Serve hot and enjoy!

   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size Approximately 1 to 1.5 cups of prepared cucumber salad.

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 88kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 5g8%

Saturated Fat 1.5g8%

Cholesterol 6mg2%

Sodium 280mg12%

Potassium 290mg9%

Total Carbohydrate 6g2%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 3g

Protein 2g4%

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Vitamin A 150 IU

Vitamin C 3 mg

Calcium 30 mg

Iron 0.4 mg

Vitamin D 8 IU

Vitamin E 0.4 IU

Vitamin K 12 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Always salt your cucumbers first — it draws out excess moisture and keeps your salad crisp, not soggy. Let them rest for at least 10 minutes, then pat dry.
• Slice cucumbers evenly — use a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent thin slices that absorb dressing better and have a better mouthfeel.
• Don’t overdress the salad — cucumbers soak up flavors quickly, so start with less dressing, toss, then add more only if needed.
• Let it chill — even a 10-minute rest in the fridge after assembling helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize it to your taste — like it creamier? Add more yogurt or mayo. Prefer it to be tangier? Splash in more vinegar or lime juice.
• Add crunch if you like — chopped peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, or even crispy shallots make great toppings.
• Fresh herbs make a difference — dill, mint, cilantro, or even basil can totally change the vibe of your salad.
• Make it just before serving for the best texture, though it will hold up for a few hours chilled.

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