Sweet and sour cucumber salad

This Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad combines crisp cucumber and scallions with a tangy dressing of vinegar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish that adds a refreshing touch to any meal.

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05 May 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 cucumber
1 cup scallions
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp fish sauce
Sweet and sour cucumber salad

Sweet and sour cucumber salad is a refreshing and tantalizing dish that perfectly strikes a balance between tangy and sweet flavors. This simple yet delicious salad complements a variety of meals and is effortless to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumber:
- Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cold water.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices or a sharp knife.
- Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl.
2. Slice the Scallions:
- Wash the scallions thoroughly.
- Trim the roots and any discolored tops.
- Thinly slice the scallions, both the white and green parts.
- Add the sliced scallions to the bowl with the cucumber.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons of vinegar.
- Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the vinegar and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil.
- Add 2 teaspoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of fish sauce.
- Mix the dressing ingredients well until fully combined.
4. Combine and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and scallions in the large bowl.
- Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure all the cucumber slices are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Marinate:
- Let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For a more intense flavor, you can let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour.
6. Serve:
- Give the salad one final toss before serving.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plate.
- Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
7. Enjoy:
- Serve the Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish to complement your meal.

In just a few easy steps, you have created a vibrant and flavorful sweet and sour cucumber salad that is perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer. Enjoy the crispness of the cucumber combined with the tangy, sweet, and savory dressing.

Sweet and sour cucumber salad FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days, but the cucumbers may become softer over time due to the dressing.

Can I substitute the fish sauce in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fish sauce with additional soy sauce for a vegetarian option, or use a vegan fish sauce alternative if desired.

How long should I let the salad marinate for optimal flavor?

For optimal flavor, let the salad marinate for at least 10-15 minutes. For a more intense flavor, refrigerate it for up to 1 hour.

What kind of cucumbers work best for this salad?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers can also be used but may need peeling.

What pan size should I use for mixing the salad?

A large mixing bowl is recommended for combining the ingredients to ensure there is enough space for tossing the salad without spilling.

Cooking Tips:

- Use an English cucumber for a less bitter taste and fewer seeds.

- For a more intense flavor, let the cucumber marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving.

- Add a bit of chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick to your salad.

- Ensure the cucumber is evenly sliced for consistent texture and flavor absorption.

- Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and enhanced nutty flavor.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 0.51g
Carbohydrates 4.34g
Fiber 0.38g
Sugar 3.11g
Fat 3.82g

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