Korean Cucumber Salad

Name: Korean Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490177H56M21S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular); 1 tsp salt; 1.5 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp minced garlic; 3 tbsp rice vinegar; 2-3 tsp chili oil (to taste); 3 tsp sugar; 1 tsp sesame oil; Optional: sesame seeds and diced green onions

Published: July 8, 2025

by eva

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Easy Korean cucumber salad with Asian dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a quick side for dinner, or simply craving something light and crunchy, this Korean cucumber salad has got you covered. Its versatility allows you to adjust the spice level to your preference, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Profile: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar creates a deliciously tangy taste that will excite your palate.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, it complements various cuisines, from Korean to American.
Health Benefits: Packed with fresh cucumbers and minimal added fat, this salad is low in calories yet satisfying.
Customizable: Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of chili oil, making it easy to cater to different taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Korean cucumber salad seamlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Sharp knife or spiralizer: Helps create beautiful cucumber slices or spirals that enhance presentation.
Paper towels: Crucial for drying cucumbers after salting to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
Larger mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing the cucumbers with the marinade without making a mess.

Ingredients

Easy Korean cucumber salad with Asian dressing is a delicious cold side dish or vegetarian dish. You can make it spicy or leave a bit sweet.

For the Salad:

5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular sizes, 4 cups)
1 tsp salt
1.5 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp minced garlic
3 tbsp rice vinegar
2-3 tsp chili oil (adjust more or less for spicy or mild)
3 tsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
3 tbsp green onions (diced, optional)

How to Make Korean Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Minced garlic
2. Sugar
3. Sesame seeds (if using)
4. Green onion (if using)

Add rice vinegar and both oils to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers

Using either a spiralizer or a sharp knife:
– Cut cucumbers into thin slices or spirals.
– Sprinkle salt over them and let them sit for 8-12 minutes to draw out excess water.

Step 3: Rinse and Toss

After salting:
1. Rinse cucumbers under cool water to remove excess salt.
2. Lay them on paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture.
3. Place the dried cucumbers into a larger bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently until all pieces are coated evenly.

Step 4: Serve

To finish:
– Top with extra sesame seeds and diced green onions if desired.
– Serve chilled as an appetizer or side dish.

Enjoy your refreshing Korean cucumber salad!

How to Serve Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
Pair it with rice dishes to add a crunchy texture.

In Tacos

Use as a topping for fish or chicken tacos for added zest.
The coolness of the salad complements spicy fillings perfectly.

On Rice Bowls

Add on top of rice bowls for extra flavor and crunch.
It balances well with savory meats and sauces.

As a Snack

Enjoy it as a light snack between meals.
Perfect for hot days when you crave something cool.

How to Perfect Korean Cucumber Salad

To elevate your Korean cucumber salad, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Use fresh cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers provide the best texture and crunch in your salad.
Adjust spice level: Customize the chili oil according to your heat preference for a tailored experience.
Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
Chill before serving: Serving the salad cold enhances its refreshing qualities, especially in warm weather.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad complements many dishes. Here are some side dishes that pair perfectly.

Kimchi: A traditional fermented side that adds tangy flavor and probiotics.
Steamed Rice: Soft, fluffy rice balances out the dish’s crispiness and acidity.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides a hearty protein option next to the light salad.
Bulgogi Beef: Sweet and savory marinated beef contrasts beautifully with the salad’s freshness.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame adds protein and is fun to eat as finger food.
Pickled Radishes: These add a pop of color and an extra crunch that pairs well with cucumber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean cucumber salad, small mistakes can affect the overall flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Ignoring the salt step: Salting cucumbers is important as it draws out excess moisture. Failing to do this can result in a watery salad. Make sure to salt your cucumbers and let them sit for the recommended time.
Not adjusting spice levels: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to increase the chili oil. Conversely, for a milder version, use less. Always taste your dressing before adding it to ensure it matches your preference.
Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can diminish the salad’s flavor. Always opt for fresh cucumbers and green onions for the best taste.
Over-mixing after marinating: Tossing the cucumbers too vigorously after adding the marinade can lead to mushiness. Gently toss to coat without breaking down the cucumbers.
Serving immediately: Letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing allows flavors to meld together better. Don’t rush; a little patience enhances taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Keep in the refrigerator to maintain crispness.

Freezing Korean Cucumber Salad

Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers lose texture when thawed.
If needed, freeze only the dressing separately and add fresh cucumbers later.

Reheating Korean Cucumber Salad

Oven: Not applicable; serve cold.
Microwave: Not recommended; best served fresh.
Stovetop: Not suitable; this dish is enjoyed cold as a refreshing side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean cucumber salad that might help you perfect this dish.

What is Korean Cucumber Salad?

Korean cucumber salad is a cold side dish made with cucumbers, garlic, and a flavorful Asian dressing. It’s refreshing and can be made spicy or sweet.

Can I make Korean Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

What are some variations of Korean Cucumber Salad?

You can add ingredients like carrots or radishes for extra crunch. Adjusting the level of chili oil also allows customization based on your spice preference.

Is Korean Cucumber Salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories, packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables, and has healthy fats from sesame oil, making it a nutritious option.

Final Thoughts

Korean cucumber salad is not only light and refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding different veggies. Try this delightful side dish at your next meal or gathering!

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