Description
A light, refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy, slightly spicy dressing, perfect as a side dish for summer meals or a snack.
Ingredients
4–5 Persian cucumbers or 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for heat level)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted preferred)
1 scallion, finely sliced
Pinch of salt
Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, chili oil drizzle, crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure even pieces. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes until fully combined.
- Pour he dressing over the cucumbers. Add the sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. Gently toss until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
- For a more intense flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving (optional).
- Serve the salad and garnish with chili oil, crushed peanuts, or fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Notes
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. For a different kick, try using gochugaru or chili crisp.
- While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Note that the cucumbers may soften slightly over time.
- For extra crunch, consider adding shredded carrots, daikon, or pickled onions. You can also swap the rice vinegar for lime juice to add a tangy twist.
- For a low-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
- This recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free soy sauce or substitute it with tamari.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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