Refreshing Asian Cucumber Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing

When you want a light yet satisfying meal, this Asian cucumber slaw with chickpeas and sesame dressing fits the bill perfectly. It combines fresh, crisp cucumbers with hearty chickpeas and a zesty dressing that will brighten your plate and your mood. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a colorful side, this recipe is simple, tasty, and full of vibrant flavors.

this Recipe

You’ll find the mix of crunchy vegetables and creamy chickpeas refreshing, especially with the nutty sesame dressing tying everything together. This asian cucumber slaw is easy to prepare and makes a great healthy option you can enjoy any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.
• Bright, fresh flavors with a balanced tangy and nutty dressing.
• Perfectly crunchy yet hearty thanks to the crisp cucumbers and protein-rich chickpeas.
• Gluten-free and vegan-friendly for versatile dietary needs.
• A colorful, healthy salad that pairs well with many dishes or stands alone as a light meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious Asian cucumber slaw with chickpeas and sesame dressing.

• 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, plus extra for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving

How to Make Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing | Simple Tasty Recipes

1. Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers; you want them crisp and uniform for the best texture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, sliced cucumbers, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the sesame dressing over the cucumber and chickpea mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the slaw and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let the slaw rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then give it one last toss before serving.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light main dish.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for less watery slaw and crunchier texture.
• Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant for maximum flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
• For extra protein, add some roasted edamame or grilled chicken on top.
• Make the slaw ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The slaw will keep its freshness best if you add the dressing just before eating. This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh vegetables.

Since this is a no-cook salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Serve cold or at room temperature for the crispest, freshest experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

Yes, you can substitute English cucumbers with Kirby or Persian cucumbers. Just be aware that regular cucumbers may have more seeds and water content, which could make the slaw slightly less crisp.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan, and by using gluten-free tamari or soy sauce, it also becomes gluten-free. It’s a great choice for various dietary preferences.

Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?

Definitely! Thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or radishes would add extra color and crunch. Just adjust the dressing quantity as needed to keep everything well-coated.

How far in advance can I prepare this slaw?

You can prep the vegetables a day in advance and keep them refrigerated. For best texture, keep the dressing separate and toss everything together within an hour before serving.