Japanese Cucumber Salad

Featured in: Crisp and Refreshing

This Japanese cucumber salad combines crisp, thinly sliced cucumbers with a delicate balance of rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. After quick salting for optimal crunch, the cucumbers are dressed and finished with toasted sesame seeds. The result is a refreshing, light dish offering sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Ideal for pairing with Asian-inspired meals or as a cooling side, it's easy to prepare and shines on any table, whether served chilled or at room temperature.

Tags: #halal #vegan #japanese #no-cook #easy #under-30-minutes #low-calorie #family-friendly #lunch #summer

sana kitchen chef
By Sana Sana
Updated on Fri, 27 Jun 2025 22:34:41 GMT
A bowl of Japanese Cucumber Salad with a spoon and a small bowl of seasoning. Pin it
A bowl of Japanese Cucumber Salad with a spoon and a small bowl of seasoning. | recipebyme.com

Cool and crisp with a bright tangy flavor this Japanese cucumber salad is my trusted secret side for hot days or anytime I want something fast and refreshing It is light enough for summer lunches yet full of that umami punch that keeps your chopsticks coming back

I first threw this together one night when I had only a few things left in my fridge It became an immediate favorite for its fresh crunch and simplicity

Ingredients

  • Japanese or Persian cucumbers: These varieties are extra crisp with thin skins and minimal seeds Look for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size
  • Salt: Draws out moisture to give perfect crunch and helps flavors soak in Use a fine sea salt for even distribution
  • Rice vinegar: Gives signature brightness Choose unseasoned rice vinegar for a clean flavor
  • Granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness balancing the acidity of the vinegar Use fresh sugar for smooth dissolving
  • Soy sauce: Delivers depth and that undeniable umami A low sodium soy sauce lets you better control saltiness
  • Sesame seeds: Finish with these for subtle nutty flavor Toast them lightly for extra aroma

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers:
Slice Japanese or Persian cucumbers as thinly as possible Either use a sharp knife or a mandoline for best results This allows the salad to absorb dressing fully and gives an even crunch
Salt and Rest:
Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt and toss well with your hands Let them stand in a large bowl for 10 minutes The salt will draw out excess water helping the cucumbers become extra crisp and making space for the dressing to soak in
Mix the Dressing:
Combine rice vinegar granulated sugar and soy sauce in a small bowl Whisk vigorously until the sugar dissolves completely You want a smooth mixture so every bite is even
Drain and Squeeze Cucumbers:
Gather the salted cucumbers and transfer them to a colander Let the liquid drain off then use both hands to gently but firmly squeeze as much remaining water as you can out of the cucumber slices This step is crucial so your salad is never watery
Combine and Marinate:
Return the drained and squeezed cucumbers to their bowl Pour the rice vinegar dressing over and toss gently with your hands or a spoon Make sure every cucumber slice is coated Allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes
Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the salad generously with toasted sesame seeds Serve right away for the best snap and freshness or chill it for later eatings Both ways are delicious
A bowl of cucumber salad with sesame seeds and chopsticks.
A bowl of cucumber salad with sesame seeds and chopsticks. | recipebyme.com

My favorite part is watching how sesame seeds instantly bring the whole salad to life Once I made this for a family picnic and my niece loved it so much she insisted on sprinkling her own seeds on every portion

Storage Tips

Store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator It will stay bright and crisp for up to three days though the sesame seeds are best added just before serving If storing for more than a day give it a gentle toss before enjoying to redistribute any collected dressing

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out Japanese or Persian cucumbers for English cucumbers if needed Just be sure to peel them for best texture If you love extra crunch add a few thin slices of radish or carrot to the mix Seasoned rice vinegar works in a pinch but hold back on sugar or the salad may taste overly sweet

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish bowls of steamed rice or even as a topping in poke bowls It is a lovely contrast alongside richer dishes like fried chicken teriyaki or barbecue Try serving it as a refreshing starter to kick off a Japanese themed meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Known as sunomono in Japan and found in home kitchens and izakaya this salad highlights Japan’s love for balance and subtlety It is a go to choice for meals that emphasize seasonal produce and delicate seasoning Refreshing salads like this one are common in summer bento boxes

Seasonal Adaptations

Switch lemon or yuzu juice for some of the rice vinegar to give a citrus twist Add a sprinkle of shichimi pepper for light heat and color Mix in fresh mint or shiso leaves for fragrance and a surprising herbal note

Success Stories

Many home cooks share that once they serve this salad at parties it becomes a requested staple and vanishes fast I have seen kids who swear off vegetables happily munching on bowlfuls

Freezer Meal Conversion

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well as cucumbers lose their crunch when thawed Instead make only what you plan to eat within a few days

A bowl of cucumber salad with sesame seeds and chopsticks.
A bowl of cucumber salad with sesame seeds and chopsticks. | recipebyme.com

Let this salad chill for a few minutes before serving for peak flavor and crunch Enjoy how the bright dressing wakes up every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cucumbers work best?

Japanese or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they're tender, less seedy, and offer a smooth, crisp texture.

→ Can I use other vinegars instead of rice vinegar?

Rice vinegar provides authentic flavor, but mild apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute in a pinch.

→ How do I prevent soggy cucumbers?

Salting and draining cucumbers removes excess moisture, keeping the salad crunchy and fresh.

→ Is this salad suitable for making ahead?

Yes, you can refrigerate the salad for several hours. Add sesame seeds just before serving for best texture.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, steamed rice, or other Japanese dishes.

Japanese Cucumber Salad

Crisp cucumbers tossed with tangy rice vinegar, a hint of soy, and sesame seeds, perfect for a refreshing side.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 min
By Sana: Sana

Category: Fresh Salads

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Japanese

Yield: 4 Servings (4 cups salad)

Dietary Categories: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Salad Base

01 4 cups thinly sliced Japanese or Persian cucumbers

→ Seasonings

02 2 teaspoons salt
03 1/4 cup rice vinegar
04 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 2 teaspoons soy sauce
06 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Steps

Step 01

Combine sliced cucumbers and salt in a large bowl. Toss well and allow to rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Step 02

In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and soy sauce until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 03

Transfer salted cucumbers to a colander. Discard any liquid from the bowl. Gently squeeze cucumbers by hand to remove additional moisture.

Step 04

Return cucumbers to the large bowl. Pour the rice vinegar dressing over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.

Step 05

Let the salad stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Top with sesame seeds and serve immediately, or refrigerate to chill before serving.

Notes

  1. For crisp texture, avoid over-marinating the cucumbers. Persian cucumbers can substitute for Japanese cucumbers if needed.

Required Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains soy (soy sauce)
  • Contains sesame seeds

Nutritional Info (per serving)

This data is provided as a guide and doesn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 44
  • Fats: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Proteins: 2 g