Easy Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad with Crispy Tofu

Introduction

This Easy Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad with Crispy Tofu is cool, crunchy, and bursting with umami flavor. Crisp cucumbers are tossed in a light, creamy sesame dressing and topped with golden, pan-fried tofu for a satisfying plant-based meal or side dish. It’s refreshing enough for hot days yet filling enough to stand alone.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 2–3

Ingredients

For the Crispy Tofu

200–250 g firm tofu, pressed and cubed

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp oil (sesame or neutral)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp black pepper

For the Cucumber Salad

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (English or Persian preferred)

1 small carrot, julienned (optional)

2 spring onions, thinly sliced

For the Creamy Asian Dressing

3 tbsp mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp grated ginger

1 small clove garlic, finely grated

Chili oil or chili paste, to taste (optional)

Garnish

Toasted sesame seeds

Fresh cilantro or coriander

Crushed peanuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crispy Tofu

Pat tofu dry and toss with soy sauce.

Sprinkle cornstarch, garlic powder, and pepper; gently coat all sides.

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

Fry tofu cubes until golden and crispy on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).

Set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and chili oil if using.

Taste and adjust sweetness or salt as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Place q tofu.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds, herbs, and crushed peanuts.

Serve immediately for maximum crunch.

Pro Tips

Salt cucumbers lightly and pat dry for extra crunch.

Use air-fried tofu for a lighter option (180°C for 12–15 minutes).

Add a splash of cold water to thin the dressing if needed.

Variations

Spicy: Add sriracha or gochujang to the dressing

Low-cal: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt

Extra crunch: Add shredded cabbage or radish

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a light lunch or dinner

Pair with rice bowls or noodles

Great as a refreshing side for spicy Asian dishes

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad with Crispy Tofu is the perfect balance of cool, creamy, and crunchy. Quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.