Easy Cucumber Salad

Super crunchy cucumber and carrot, slightly pungent shallot, spicy jalapeño (totally optional) and an herby hit from cilantro.  Top it with a simple vinaigrette that has the sweet notes of rice vinegar and unmistakable toasty vibe of sesame oil.  You'll soon see why this salad went viral.

If you haven't seen the viral cucumber salad deluging social media, let me get you up to speed.
A simple yet delicious cucumber salad that has taken the internet by storm. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this salad is not just a trend—it’s a must-try!

Why This Cucumber Salad Went Viral

1. Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, this salad is perfect for anyone, from busy parents to kitchen novices.​
2. Fresh Ingredients: The main star, cucumbers, are crunchy, juicy, and oh-so-refreshing, not to mention they're loaded with collagen which is great for our skin and joints.
3. Versatility: Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a party appetizer, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal.  Think of adding some shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a full meal.
4. Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors and crisp textures make it a feast for the eyes, perfect for sharing on social media.

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Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, avocados, or even chickpeas for added protein.
• Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it a great option for potlucks or barbecues.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The cucumbers may lose some crunch, but the flavors will still be delicious!

So grab your cucumbers and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Essential Mixing Bowls.                             Wooden Salad Tongs                            Box grater/slicer

Perfect with my Honey Gochujang Salmon


You'll need:
Box Grater or mandolin
Cutting Board
Mixing Bowl
Jar with a tight fitting lid
Salad tongs
Knife Set


Cucumber Salad
Serves 4 as a side or 2 as a full salad

1 large English (hothouse) cucumber. (or 2 small)
1 carrot
1/2 shallot. (or about 1/4 small red onion)
Small handful cilantro, chopped (optional)
1/2 jalapeno, chopped (optional)
Sea Salt to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish


Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce or coconut aminos



Start by making the vinaigrette by adding all the ingredients to a jar with a tight fitting lid. Give it a good shake and set aside while you make the salad.


Using the slicing side of a box grater or on a mandolin, thinly slice your cucumber and carrots directly into your mixing bowl. You can place the base of the box cutter right into the bowl to secure it.


Finally slice the shallot and add to the cucumber and carrots along with cilantro and jalapeño.


Drizzle with the dressing and then salt to taste.  Toss well ( I used wooden salad tongs so as not to bruise the cucumber)


Sprinkle with sesame seeds.


Perfect served with my Honey Gochujang Salmon