Cucumber salad with garlic dressing

Cucumber salad with garlic dressing features fresh cucumbers tossed in a savory dressing made with ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This refreshing dish is easy to prepare and delightful as a side or light lunch.

15 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp peanut oil
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp ginger root
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp sugar
2 cucumbers
1/4 cup scallions
1 cup coriander leaves
1 tbsp sesame seeds

Cucumber salad with garlic dressing is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with a savory, tangy dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to complement your main course. With aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or halve them lengthwise and then slice into half-moons, as preferred.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.

2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small saucepan or skillet, heat the peanut oil and sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced ginger root and minced garlic to the heated oils. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the cooled oil, ginger, and garlic mixture into the soy sauce mixture. Stir well to combine.

3. Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the garlic dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the mixing bowl.
- Add the thinly sliced scallions and roughly chopped coriander leaves to the bowl.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Toast the Sesame Seeds:
- In a dry skillet, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat, shaking the skillet occasionally, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Let the toasted sesame seeds cool slightly.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the cucumber salad to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad for a finishing touch.

6. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful cucumber salad with garlic dressing. It pairs nicely with a variety of main dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack.

Cucumber salad with garlic dressing is a quick and easy way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your meal. The unique blend of peanut and sesame oil combined with garlic and ginger creates a delightful taste experience. Try this recipe for a healthy and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite.

Cucumber salad with garlic dressing FAQ:

How long can I store the cucumber salad in the refrigerator?

You can store the cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers can become soggy.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

If you don't have sesame oil, you can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. However, this will alter the flavor slightly, as sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty taste.

What type of cucumbers should I use for this salad?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best for this salad, as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. However, regular slicing cucumbers can also be used.

How do I know when the garlic dressing is ready?

The garlic dressing is ready when the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden after sautéing, but be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even mixing.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to thinly slice the cucumbers to allow them to absorb the dressing more effectively.

- You can adjust the amount of garlic and ginger according to your taste preference.

- For added crunch, consider adding a handful of crushed peanuts or toasted almonds.

- To enhance the flavors, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

- If you prefer a less tangy dressing, reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a little more sugar.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 90kcal
Protein 2.99g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 1.86g
Sugar 5g
Fat 5g

Cucumber salad with garlic dressing