Name: Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 whole cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1 large handful of crispy baked tofu (≈ 150 g) or other protein of choice; 1/3 cup edamame, shelled and thawed; 1 small carrot, julienned; 1 spring onion, sliced; 1/2 avocado, cut into 1 cm cubes; 1 tbsp vegan cream cheese; 1 tbsp vegan mayo; 1 tbsp Sriracha; 1 tsp chili-crisp oil; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; OPTIONAL: 1–2 tsp crushed nori flakes for a subtle sushi flavor

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Introduction

This Creamy Asian Cucumber Salad Bowl is a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for light lunches or healthy dinners. With layers of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and crispy tofu, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The spicy, creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully.

A tall, clear glass is filled to the top with a creamy salad made of thin, green cucumber slices, light orange carrot shreds, and bright green edamame beans, all coated in a thick, pale yellow dressing with specks of black seeds scattered throughout. The salad looks fresh and dense, with the vegetables tightly packed in layers that show the mix of smooth, crunchy textures. A spoon with a blue handle is lifted slightly above the glass, holding some salad that spills over slightly, emphasizing the thick and creamy consistency. The setting is a white marbled surface beneath the glass, adding a clean and bright feel to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 whole cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 large handful of crispy baked tofu (≈ 150 g) or other protein of choice
1/3 cup edamame, shelled and thawed
1 small carrot, julienned
1 spring onion, sliced
1/2 avocado, cut into 1 cm cubes
1 tbsp vegan cream cheese
1 tbsp vegan mayo
1 tbsp Sriracha
1 tsp chili-crisp oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame seeds
OPTIONAL: 1–2 tsp crushed nori flakes for a subtle sushi flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Place the thinly sliced cucumber at the bottom of a jar and press lightly to create a firm base. Layer the onion, crispy tofu, edamame, julienned carrot, spring onion, and avocado cubes in order, keeping ingredients fresh and textures distinct. For make-ahead meals, keep saucy ingredients near the top.
Step 2: Seal the jar tightly to prevent leaks and refrigerate upright if not eating immediately. This allows the tofu to absorb flavors while keeping toppings like sesame seeds and nori flakes dry for texture.
Step 3: When ready to eat, ensure the lid is tightly sealed, invert the jar twice, then shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to evenly distribute the creamy, spicy dressing throughout the salad.
Step 4: Enjoy the salad straight from the jar for convenience, or pour it into a bowl for easier tossing and eating. It also pairs well over steamed rice, chilled noodles, or inside lettuce wraps for a heartier meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds before adding them as a topping.
Swap crispy tofu with grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegan protein option.
Add a splash of rice vinegar to the dressing for a tangy twist.
Use spiralized zucchini instead of cucumber for a different texture.

Storage

Store the salad in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shake well before eating to redistribute the dressing. Avoid storing for too long to keep the avocado and cucumber fresh and crisp.

How to Serve

A clear glass filled to the top with a creamy salad made of thin cucumber slices, thin carrot sticks, and possibly other green vegetables, all mixed in a light yellowish-orange dressing with visible black sesame seeds scattered throughout. The mixture has a thick texture that clings to the vegetables. The glass is placed on a wooden cutting board with visible wood grain, and the surface underneath is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tofu instead of crispy baked tofu?

Yes, but crispy baked tofu adds a nice texture contrast. If using fresh tofu, press it well to remove excess moisture and consider pan-frying for better texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Layering the ingredients in a jar keeps them fresh and allows for easy transport. Just keep the dressing towards the top and shake before eating.