There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor. Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe is the perfect example—crisp, refreshing, garlicky, and slightly spicy, making it an irresistible start to any meal. Whether you’ve enjoyed it at the restaurant or are looking for a light and flavorful side dish, this recipe will bring the same cool, crunchy, and tangy experience to your table.
What Is Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad?
This Taiwanese-style cucumber salad is a delicious appetizer featuring fresh cucumbers tossed in a garlicky, spicy, and slightly sweet dressing. The cucumbers are lightly salted to enhance their crunch, then marinated in a perfect balance of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chili oil, and fresh garlic. The result? A dish that’s cool, zesty, and just a little bit spicy—a perfect complement to rich and savory dishes.
Din Tai Fung, a world-famous Taiwanese restaurant chain, is best known for its handmade soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) and delicate small plates. Among these, the cucumber salad stands out as a must-try dish, offering a refreshing contrast to the restaurant’s rich and savory dumplings. It has become a fan favorite, proving that even the simplest dishes can be extraordinary.
Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe
Course: Dinner, SidesCuisine: TaiwaneseDifficulty: Easy2-4
servings10
minutes50-70 kcal per serving
kcalA refreshing, garlicky, and slightly spicy cucumber salad, just like the one from Din Tai Fung! This easy appetizer is crisp, flavorful, and takes just minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
4 Persian cucumbers (or 1 large English cucumber)
1 teaspoon salt (for draining excess moisture)
Dressing:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon sugar (or honey/maple syrup for a natural alternative)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds nuttiness and depth)
1 teaspoon chili oil (adjust based on spice preference)
Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for added spiciness.
Optional Garnishes:
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Sliced red chili or green onions
Directions
- Prep the Cucumbers
Wash the cucumbers and slice them into thick rounds (about ½ inch thick) for a crunchy texture.
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cucumber slices, toss them, and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess water.
Drain the cucumbers and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil.
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning based on your preference (add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tanginess, or chili oil for heat). - Assemble the Salad
Toss the dried cucumbers with the dressing until evenly coated.
Let the salad sit for at least 15-30 minutes in the fridge for maximum flavor absorption. - Garnish Serve
Before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced red chili or green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
Enjoy this chilled as a refreshing appetizer, side, or snack. - Storage Tips
✔ Best Served Fresh – Enjoy within 24 hours for the crunchiest texture.
✔ Make Ahead – Store the cucumbers and dressing separately, then toss just before serving.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Quick – Just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time!
✔ Refreshing & Crunchy – Perfect for warm days or as a palate cleanser between rich dishes.
✔ Versatile – Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light snack.
✔ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Recreate the magic of Din Tai Fung without the wait!
The first time I tried this cucumber salad at Din Tai Fung, I was hooked. The combination of crisp cucumbers, bold garlic, and the perfect amount of heat made it one of the most memorable side dishes I’ve ever had. Since then, it has become a staple at home, especially on hot summer days when I crave something light yet flavorful.
Tips & Variations for the Perfect Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
Once you’ve mastered the classic Din Tai Fung cucumber salad recipe, it’s time to get creative! Whether you want to enhance the flavors, adjust it to dietary needs, or elevate the presentation, here are some great ways to customize and serve this refreshing dish.
Flavor Variations
Want to add a personal touch? Try these tasty modifications:
✔ Extra Tanginess – Add a splash of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick.
✔ More Crunch & Color – Toss in shredded carrots or radishes to enhance texture and visual appeal.
✔ Different Sweetness – Swap sugar for honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
✔ Nutty Twist – Sprinkle in crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and depth.
✔ Herbal Boost – Add fresh cilantro or Thai basil for a fragrant touch.
Dietary Adjustments
Make this recipe fit your dietary preferences with these easy swaps:
✔ Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
✔ Less Spicy – Reduce or omit chili peppers for a milder version.
✔ Sweeter Balance – If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the sugar slightly.
Presentation Ideas
Make your cucumber salad look as incredible as it tastes with these simple plating tricks:
✔ Restaurant-Style Plating – Arrange the cucumber slices in a shallow bowl or on a sleek platter for an elegant presentation.
✔ Garnish for Visual Appeal – Add extra chili slices, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil for a finishing touch.
✔ Pair with Other Din Tai Fung Favorites – Serve alongside dumplings, noodles, or wontons for a complete Taiwanese-inspired meal.
Let It Marinate!
For the best flavor, let the cucumbers sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak in, making each bite even more flavorful!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Making Din Tai Fung cucumber salad is simple, but small mistakes can affect the final result. If your salad turns out too watery, too salty, or lacks flavor, don’t worry—here’s how to fix common issues and get that perfect crunchy, flavorful bite every time!
Problem: The Cucumbers Are Too Watery
🔴 Issue: The salad turns out watery, diluting the flavors.
✅ Solution:
✔ Salt the cucumbers properly – Sprinkle salt over the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
✔ Drain well – After salting, pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel before adding the dressing.
Problem: The Salad Is Too Salty
🔴 Issue: The cucumbers absorb too much salt, making the dish overly salty.
✅ Solution:
✔ Rinse thoroughly – After salting, rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt.
✔ Use low-sodium soy sauce – This keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
Problem: The Salad Is Too Spicy
🔴 Issue: The heat overpowers the other flavors.
✅ Solution:
✔ Reduce the chili amount – Cut down on fresh chili or chili oil.
✔ Remove chili seeds – The seeds hold most of the heat, so removing them makes the dish milder.
Problem: The Flavors Are Too Mild
🔴 Issue: The salad tastes bland or lacks depth.
✅ Solution:
✔ Boost the key flavors – Increase garlic, vinegar, or chili oil to taste.
✔ Let it marinate – Allow the cucumbers to sit in the dressing for at least 30 minutes for a deeper flavor infusion.
Problem: The Salad Becomes Soggy After Marinating
🔴 Issue: The cucumbers lose their crunch over time.
✅ Solution:
✔ Serve immediately – Enjoy the salad soon after mixing for the best texture.
✔ Store the dressing separately – If making ahead, keep the cucumbers and dressing separate and toss them together right before serving.
With these easy fixes, you’ll achieve perfectly crunchy, flavorful, and balanced Din Tai Fung cucumber salad every time.
Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe: A Nutritional Breakdown
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is not only refreshing and flavorful but also a low-calorie side dish packed with health benefits. Below is a detailed nutritional breakdown, highlighting key macronutrients, health benefits, and easy swaps to make this dish even healthier.
Caloric Breakdown (Per Serving)
These values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size and ingredient modifications.
✔ Calories: ~50-70 kcal
✔ Fat: 2-3g (mostly from sesame oil)
✔ Carbohydrates: 6-8g (from cucumbers and sugar)
✔ Protein: 1-2g (from soy sauce)
✔ Sodium: ~300-400mg (from soy sauce and salt)
This salad is light and low in calories, making it a great healthy side dish without compromising on bold flavors.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Cucumbers: Hydrating & Nutrient-Rich
✔ High water content (95% water) keeps you hydrated.
✔ Contains vitamins K and C, which support bone and immune health.
✔ Low in calories but rich in fiber, aiding digestion.
Garlic: A Natural Immune Booster
✔ Contains allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
✔ Supports heart health by helping reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Sesame Oil: A Source of Healthy Fats
✔ Rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats, which support cholesterol balance.
✔ Contains antioxidants like sesamol, which may help reduce inflammation.
Soy Sauce: Umami Flavor with Nutrients
✔ Provides small amounts of protein and essential amino acids.
✔ Contains antioxidants that may support gut health.
✔ However, it can be high in sodium, so moderation is key!
Healthier Alternatives & Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to make this cucumber salad even healthier, try these easy modifications:
✅ Lower Sodium – Use low-sodium soy sauce or swap it with tamari (gluten-free).
✅ Less Sugar – Reduce sugar or replace it with honey, maple syrup, or stevia.
✅ Less Oil – Cut down on sesame oil or replace half with a lighter oil like avocado oil.
✅ More Fiber & Nutrients – Keep the cucumber skins on for added fiber and antioxidants.
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is a simple yet nutritious dish that fits into almost any diet. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a crunchy side dish, or a refreshing snack, this salad offers bold flavors with minimal calories. With a few simple tweaks, you can customize it to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying its signature taste!
For more detailed nutritional data, visit the USDA FoodData Central:
🔗 USDA Nutrition Database
FAQs about Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, but with a few adjustments. Regular cucumbers have thicker skin and more seeds, which can affect the texture, so it’s best to peel the skin to remove any bitterness and scoop out the seeds To avoid diluting the dressing with excess water.. If using English cucumbers, you can leave the skin on, as it is thinner and less bitter.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but store the dressing separately. For the best texture, prepare the cucumbers and dressing separately and combine just before serving. If marinating the cucumbers, let them sit for no more than 30 minutes to prevent them from becoming too soft. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, cucumbers do not freeze well. Freezing causes them to become mushy and lose their crunch due to their high water content. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so it’s best to make only as much as you plan to eat within a day.
What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
Yes, there are a few great alternatives! White wine vinegar is the closest in mild acidity and sweetness, apple cider vinegar adds a slightly fruity tang but still works well, and lemon or lime juice provides a citrusy twist, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I make this salad less spicy?
Adjust the spice level to your taste! Reduce or omit chili oil and fresh chili slices, remove chili seeds since they hold most of the heat, and add a touch of honey or extra vinegar to balance out any remaining spiciness.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about 24 hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cucumbers crisp, and if they soften, toss them with a little fresh dressing to revive the flavors.
Now that you have all the answers, you’re ready to make the perfect Din Tai Fung cucumber salad at home!
Enjoy Your Own Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad!
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is the perfect balance of crisp, refreshing, and flavorful—all in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a side dish to pair with dumplings, or a quick snack, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, experience the bold garlic, tangy vinegar, and subtle heat of chili, and enjoy a dish that’s just as addictive as the one from Din Tai Fung.
We’d Love to Hear From You!
✔ Did you try this recipe? Share your experience in the comments!
✔ What’s your favorite way to customize this salad? Let us know your favorite add-ins or variations!
Follow us on [Facebook] for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!
Enjoy your taste of Din Tai Fung at home! 🥢😊