If you love Din Tai Fung cucumber salad, you’re in for a treat! This cool, crunchy, and zesty appetizer is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Featuring crisp cucumbers, a garlicky soy dressing, and a hint of spice, this dish is the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and refreshing flavors. Whether served as a light side dish, an appetizer, or a healthy snack, it pairs beautifully with dumplings, noodles, or grilled meats.
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Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad A Cool Side Dish You’ll Love
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Din Tai Fung-inspired cucumber salad is crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. With garlicky soy dressing, a touch of heat, and the perfect crunch, this Taiwanese appetizer is easy to make and pairs beautifully with dumplings, stir-fries, or noodle dishes. The cucumbers absorb the tangy, savory marinade while retaining their freshness, making it an ideal quick side dish or healthy snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4–5 Persian cucumbers (or 1 large English cucumber)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for a tangy contrast)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds nutty aroma)
- ½ teaspoon chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Garnishes (Optional but Recommended):
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for extra crunch)
- 1 stalk green onion, finely sliced (for freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and pat dry the cucumbers.
- Slice them into ½-inch rounds or slightly thick diagonal pieces for the best texture.
- Place the cucumber slices in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Drain any liquid and gently pat dry with a paper towel to retain crunch.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- Stir well until the sugar fully dissolves.
- If you like spice, add chili oil or red pepper flakes and mix again.
Step 3: Toss and Marinate
- Pour the dressing over the prepared cucumbers.
- Toss until each piece is evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.
- Let the salad rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- For a deeper flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra texture and color.
- Serve chilled as an appetizer, side dish, or light snack.
Notes
- Cucumber Selection: Persian cucumbers are ideal for their thin skin and firm texture, but English cucumbers work well too. Avoid using standard garden cucumbers, as they release too much water.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This salad tastes even better after marinating. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili oil or red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. For an extra kick, add finely chopped fresh Thai chilies.
- Substitutions:
- Soy sauce → Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
- Rice vinegar → Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
- Sugar → Honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: No-cook, Marinated
- Cuisine: Taiwanese, Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Din Tai Fung cucumber salad, Taiwanese cucumber salad, Asian cucumber side dish, quick pickled cucumbers, spicy cucumber salad
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
This cool, zesty cucumber salad is light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect balance of crunch, tang, and a touch of heat, making it a great addition to any meal. Here’s what makes it special:
- Quick to Prepare – Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Bold and Refreshing – Crisp cucumbers absorb a flavorful mix of soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar.
- Versatile Pairing – Complements dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries effortlessly.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add toppings like sesame seeds and green onions.
- Better with Time – Letting it sit enhances the flavors, making it great for meal prep.
This easy homemade version captures the signature Taiwanese flavors in a few simple steps. Let’s get started!
For more refreshing salad ideas, check out this broccoli cauliflower salad recipe for another crunchy, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients for Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
To recreate this refreshing and flavorful cucumber salad, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance of crunch, tang, and umami.
Main Ingredients:
- Persian cucumbers (4-5) – Crisp, seedless, and ideal for soaking up flavors. English cucumbers also work.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Draws out excess moisture for a firmer texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds a bold, aromatic kick.
For the Dressing:
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon) – Brings deep umami flavor.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a bright, tangy contrast.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances the acidity and enhances the natural sweetness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon) – Infuses a rich, nutty aroma.
- Chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional, to taste) – Adds a subtle heat for those who like a spicy kick.
Garnishes (Optional but Recommended):
- Sesame seeds – Adds a light crunch and toasty flavor.
- Green onions (sliced) – Enhances freshness and color.
Looking for another delicious salad option? Try this Costco quinoa salad for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
By combining these simple yet bold ingredients, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to bring it all together.
How to Make Din Tai Fung-Inspired Cucumber Salad
This cool and tangy cucumber salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect balance of crunch, umami, and freshness.
Step-1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Cut them into bite-sized rounds or slightly thick diagonal slices for the best texture.
- Place the cucumber pieces in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt to help draw out excess moisture.
- Let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain any released liquid and gently pat the cucumbers dry.
Step-2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds deep umami flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (brings a tangy contrast)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (enhances the dish with a subtle, toasty richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a bold, aromatic kick)
- Stir until the sugar fully dissolves and the ingredients are well combined.
- For a spicy touch, mix in chili oil or red pepper flakes to taste.
Step-3: Toss the Salad
- Pour the prepared dressing over the drained cucumbers.
- Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.
- Allow the salad to rest for 10–15 minutes, giving the ingredients time to blend and deepen in flavor.
Step-4: Chill and Serve
- For a more intensified flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving.
- Right before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added crunch and color.
- Serve chilled as a light appetizer, a side dish for dumplings, or a refreshing snack.
This quick and flavorful cucumber salad pairs beautifully with rich dishes and gets better as it marinates. Enjoy!
For those who enjoy seafood flavors, pair this salad with a crab salad sandwich for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions for Din Tai Fung-Inspired Cucumber Salad
This crisp and flavorful cucumber salad is incredibly versatile, making it the perfect addition to a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it as a light appetizer or pairing it with your favorite dishes, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
As a Side Dish
- Pairs beautifully with dumplings, providing a refreshing contrast to rich, savory fillings.
- Complements noodle dishes such as spicy sesame noodles or stir-fried lo mein.
- Balances the bold flavors of grilled meats, including teriyaki chicken or Korean BBQ.
As an Appetizer or Snack
- Serve chilled as a refreshing starter before a heavier meal.
- Enjoy it as a light and healthy snack, perfect for warm days.
Customizing Your Serving Style
- For extra crunch, top with roasted peanuts or crispy shallots.
- For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
- For a spicy kick, drizzle additional chili oil just before serving.
No matter how you serve it, this cool and zesty cucumber salad adds a fresh, tangy, and satisfying element to any meal.
For more appetizer ideas, explore this guide to vegan appetizers for plant-based options that pair well with this salad.
Exploring the Best Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipes
Recreating the Din Tai Fung cucumber salad at home is easy with the right ingredients and techniques. Here are three expert takes on this refreshing and flavorful dish:
- If you’re looking for an authentic copycat version, check out this Din Tai Fung cucumber salad recipe from Platings + Pairings, which captures the signature balance of tanginess and crunch.
- For a slightly different twist, Earth and Oven offers a tangy Din Tai Fung cucumber salad that enhances the freshness with a vibrant, citrusy dressing.
- If you prefer a step-by-step video guide, CJ Eats Recipes provides an excellent Din Tai Fung cucumber salad tutorial with helpful tips to perfect the texture and seasoning.
Each of these recipes brings a unique touch to this cool and zesty salad, making it easy to find the perfect version for your taste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a while, as the flavors have more time to develop. For the best results, prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
2. What type of cucumbers work best for this recipe?
Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have a thin skin, minimal seeds, and a crisp texture. If unavailable, English cucumbers are a great alternative. Avoid standard garden cucumbers, as they contain more water and can become soggy.
3. How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will soften over time as they absorb the dressing.
4. Can I make this salad spicier?
Absolutely! Adjust the heat level by adding more chili oil, red pepper flakes, or a dash of Szechuan peppercorn powder. You can also toss in some finely chopped fresh chilies for extra spice.
5. Can I substitute any ingredients?
- Soy sauce → Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Rice vinegar → Swap with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar if needed.
- Sugar → Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
6. What dishes pair well with this salad?
It goes well with dumplings, noodle dishes, grilled meats, and even sandwiches. For another light, flavorful salad, try this Christmas cranberry salad.
This easy, flavorful cucumber salad is simple to customize and makes a great addition to any meal. Let me know how you like to enjoy it!
nice
Good!
★★★★★
Five stars for this one! Absolutely loved it—thank you for sharing!
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