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Homemade Viral Crunchy Cucumber Salad Copycat recipe photo
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Viral Crunchy Cucumber Salad Copycat

This Viral Crunchy Cucumber Salad Copycat is fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors and satisfying crunch. A perfect light meal or side dish!
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, Healthy, Quick, Salad
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 large cucumbers sliced
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast shredded

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers

  • Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even, crisp pieces. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle the salt over them. Toss the cucumbers gently to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess water and keep the salad crunchy.

Make the Dressing

  • While the cucumbers are resting, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and chili flakes in a small bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well blended.

Drain and Rinse the Cucumbers

  • After 20 minutes, drain the liquid released from the cucumbers and rinse them briefly under cold water to remove excess salt. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to gently pat the cucumbers dry to maintain crisp texture.

Assemble the Salad

  • Place the drained cucumbers back into the bowl. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. Add the chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and shredded chicken breast. Toss gently to combine all flavors and ingredients.

Chill and Serve

  • Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or light meal.

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • Knife
  • Mandoline Slicer
  • Whisk
  • Kitchen Towel

Notes

  • Use large English or Kirby cucumbers for best crunch.
  • Don’t skip the salting step to keep cucumbers crisp and flavorful.
  • Reduce or omit chili flakes if you prefer less heat.
  • Lightly toast sesame seeds for extra flavor.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate to allow flavors to develop, but consume within 1-2 days for best texture.