Description
This Korean Cucumber Salad features crisp, refreshing cucumbers tossed in a zesty sesame-soy dressing, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite. With hints of garlic and ginger, it’s a vibrant side dish that can be whipped up in under 15 minutes. Perfect for barbecues or as a healthy addition to any meal, this easy recipe is customizable to suit your taste. Its stunning green hue makes it a feast for the eyes, ensuring it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil, toasted
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, unseasoned
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
- Wash your cucumbers thoroughly.
- Slice cucumbers thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Place sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Let cucumbers sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients together until well blended.
- Taste the dressing and adjust with more sugar or vinegar if desired.
- Transfer drained cucumbers to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices.
- Toss everything together gently with tongs or clean hands until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store any leftover Korean cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and crunch, as the cucumbers may become soggy over time.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. If you prefer a warm dish, consider lightly sautéing the cucumbers in a pan for a couple of minutes, but be mindful that this may change the texture and flavor profile.
Serving: Serve the Korean cucumber salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer. It pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as part of a larger Korean meal spread. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds for an appealing presentation.
Chef’s Tip: For added flavor, try incorporating sliced green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad Healthy
- Method: Mischen
Nutrition
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0