Description
Crisp and refreshing, Korean Cucumber Salad is a vibrant side dish that bursts with tangy flavors. Fresh cucumbers mingle with a zesty dressing, creating a delightful balance of sweet and sour. Perfect for summer picnics or any gathering, this easy recipe is not only quick to make but also customizable—add sesame seeds for extra crunch or chili oil for a spicy kick. With its stunning appearance and irresistible taste, this salad is a must-try at your next meal or barbecue.
Ingredients
- 4 firm cucumbers, sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar, unseasoned
- 1 tablespoon sugar, granulated
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, toasted
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly under cold water.
- Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and set them aside in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine ¼ cup rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 clove finely minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Whisk the dressing until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the large bowl.
- Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every cucumber slice in the dressing.
- Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and toss again to mix well.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.
- Garnish with extra red pepper flakes or sesame seeds before serving if desired.
- Enjoy immediately to keep the fresh crunch intact.
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. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release liquid over time, which can affect the texture.
Reheating: Korean cucumber salad is typically served cold and does not require reheating. If you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving, but avoid heating as it may cause the cucumbers to become limp.
Serving: Serve the salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or as part of a larger Korean meal. For added visual appeal, garnish with extra red pepper flakes or sesame seeds before serving.
Chef’s Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the dressing for at least an hour before serving. You can also experiment with adding other ingredients like sliced carrots or radishes for additional texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad Healthy
- Method: Mischen
Nutrition
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0