How to Make Korean Cucumber Salad for a Refreshing Side Dish

Are you ready to add a burst of flavor and crunch to your meals? I’m excited to share my favorite Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe with you! This refreshing side dish is not only quick to prepare but also a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something light yet satisfying, this salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet! Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Light and refreshing, making it a great side for quick family dinners.
• Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or as a standalone dish.
• Can be adjusted for spice levels to suit your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep and can be stored for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious Korean Cucumber Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular sizes, about 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)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Making this Korean Cucumber Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

1. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, sugar, sesame seeds, and green onion. Add the rice vinegar and all of the oil. Mix together to coat.
2. To create fun spirals, use a spiralizer, or simply slice the cucumbers thinly with a sharp knife. Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 8-12 minutes.
3. After the cucumbers have released some water, rinse them under cold water. Lay them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Transfer the cucumbers to a bowl and pour the rice vinegar marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and diced green onions on top for an extra touch!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your salad turns out perfectly:

• For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili oil.
• Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like carrots or radishes for added crunch and color.
• This salad is a great accompaniment to easy pasta recipes or grilled meats!

How to Serve

This Spicy Cucumber Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a refreshing side dish to grilled chicken or fish.
• Pair it with rice and your favorite protein for a complete meal.
• Serve it alongside Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Chinese Takeout for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Enjoy it as a light snack on its own!

Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, consume within the first day or two to enjoy the crispness of the cucumbers.
• If you’re making it ahead of time, consider adding the marinade just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.

Now that you know how to make this delightful Korean Cucumber Salad, I hope you give it a try! It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of weeknight dinner ideas and a great way to impress your family with minimal effort. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out my Cabbage Soup Diet for a healthy twist or explore other Cucumber Recipes Salad options. Happy cooking!