Description

The internet is obsessed with this crunchy, flavorful cucumber salad—and for good reason! Originally inspired by Asian cucumber salads, this version took off on TikTok thanks to its bold, addictive flavors. My take on this viral dish amps up the flavor with crispy chili oil for a satisfying kick.

Ingredients

1 large English cucumber (or 3-4 Persian cucumbers)
1.5 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari or coconut aminos)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 clove garlic, grated or minced
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, dry toasted in a skillet for a few minutes to make them fragrant
optional, 1-2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar (add to taste for some zing without heat)*
optional: chili crisp drizzled over the top, to taste

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Instructions

Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds and place them in a bowl.
Sprinkle with salt, toss to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes. Drain any excess water.
In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and rice wine vinegar (if using).
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to combine. Top with crispy chili oil, sesame seeds, and green onions. Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge up to 24 hours.

Notes

Rice wine vinegar adds a subtle acidic zing to this recipe without adding any heat. It’s not in the original TikTok salad video, but it’s nice to add if you have some and want to mix things up.