Cucumber Salad Oriental
A refreshing Oriental cucumber salad featuring crisp cucumbers, scallions, sesame oil, and a hint of spice, perfect as a light side or appetizer for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except toasted sesame seed and mix well.
- When ready to serve, sprinkle with toasted sesame seed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the light soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. If you want more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a splash of sriracha. Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for the best texture. You can also chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. This salad can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side to spicy dishes. Consider serving it alongside Asian-inspired recipes, like teriyaki chicken or as a light starter before a meal. For a complete meal, try it with a side of Yummy Granola for a crunchy texture contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will release moisture over time, so it's best to consume the salad fresh. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in a pan over low heat, but keep in mind that it's ideally served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad Oriental contains roughly 29 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2049mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients, store in the refrigerator, and serve cold. However, it's best to add the toasted sesame seeds right before serving to keep them crunchy.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
If you don't have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or avocado oil for a different flavor profile. However, the unique taste of sesame oil is hard to replicate, so consider using a smaller amount of toasted sesame seeds for a hint of that flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Cucumber Salad is completely vegan-friendly! All the ingredients, including the soy sauce and sesame oil, are plant-based, making it a great addition to any vegan meal or gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).