Cucumber Salad(China)
A refreshing Chinese cucumber salad with a tangy, savory dressing, perfect for light meals or as a side dish to complement Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, wine vinegar, sugar, vinegar, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper in a salad bowl thoroughly.
- Add the sliced cucumbers (and bell pepper if desired) to the dressing.
- Chill the salad well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding sliced bell peppers or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to the cucumber salad. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper. You can also substitute rice vinegar for the wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. This salad is great alongside dishes like Sesame Broccoli or Vinegar Dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for grilled meats or fish, enhancing meals like Rowser'S Famous Melt-Away Teriyaki Steaks. Pair it with a light main course, or serve it as part of a larger spread with other Chinese recipes. It also complements fried rice or noodles beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release water, so give the salad a good stir before serving again. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat; simply chill and serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad(China) contains roughly 488 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 839mg per serving (36% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and slice the cucumbers a few hours in advance. Just combine them right before serving to maintain the cucumbers' crispness. The flavors will meld beautifully as they chill together.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari works well as a soy sauce substitute. For a lighter flavor, you can also use coconut aminos. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This cucumber salad is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. All the ingredients are derived from plants, making it a fresh and healthy choice for anyone following a vegan lifestyle.
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).