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Fresh Cucumber Salad with Easy Rice Vinegar Dressing

fresh cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing - featured image

A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy rice vinegar dressing, perfect for hot days and quick to make in under 10 minutes. This simple side dish is a crowd-pleaser that balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for salting cucumbers)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Place sliced cucumbers in a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Transfer cucumbers to a colander, rinse with cool water to remove excess salt, and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  4. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until sugar is dissolved.
  5. Return dried cucumbers to the large bowl, pour dressing over them, and toss gently to coat. Add sliced green onions and toss again.
  6. Cover and let rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes (optional, for better flavor).
  7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving and toss gently. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t skip the patting-dry step after salting cucumbers to avoid watery dressing. For best texture, slice cucumbers at a 45-degree angle. The salad is best within 2 hours of dressing; prep components separately for parties.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, rice vinegar dressing, quick side dish, summer salad, easy recipe, vegan, gluten-free