Spicy Asian Accordion Cucumber Salad – A Crunchy, Tangy & Flavorful Side Dish

Looking for a refreshing side dish with a little kick? This Spicy Asian Accordion Cucumber Salad is the perfect combination of crisp cucumbers, savory soy sauce, tangy rice vinegar, garlic, and a touch of heat!

The unique accordion-style cucumber slices aren't just beautiful — they also help capture the delicious Asian-inspired dressing in every bite.

Whether you're looking for a healthy snack, a refreshing side dish, or something new to add to your Lean & Green meal plan, this easy cucumber salad is a must-try!

🥒 Ingredients

Servings: 2 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: None Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes

• 2 cups (208 g) Persian cucumbers

• Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (amount not specified in original recipe)

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Rinse the Persian cucumbers thoroughly under cool water.

Trim off both ends of each cucumber.

Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Create the Accordion Cuts

Place one cucumber lengthwise between two chopsticks on a cutting board.

The chopsticks will help prevent your knife from cutting completely through the cucumber.

Using a sharp knife, make thin diagonal cuts along the top of the cucumber.

Carefully flip the cucumber over and make thin cuts along the opposite side.

The result should be a flexible, accordion-style cucumber that stretches slightly while remaining connected.

Cut the cucumber into halves or smaller serving-sized pieces.

Repeat with the remaining cucumbers.

Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Asian Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.

Whisk until well blended.

Step 4: Toss the Cucumbers

Place the accordion-cut cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss until evenly coated.

Be careful not to break apart the delicate accordion slices.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly sliced green onions over the cucumber salad.

Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate briefly to allow the flavors to blend.

Enjoy!

🥗 Lean & Green Meal Information

Recipe Yield: 2 servings

Per Serving (Original Recipe Counts):

• 2 Greens

• 2½ Condiments

• 1 Healthy Fat