This Easy Korean Cucumber Salad is a crunchy and refreshing side dish. With just a few ingredients like cucumbers, vinegar, and a hint of spice, it packs a flavorful punch!
I love how quick this salad comes together—perfect for those busy days. Just slice up the cucumbers, mix them with the dressing, and voilà! A tasty treat that’s ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch, go for Kirby or English cucumbers. If you can’t find them, regular slicing cucumbers will do. Feel free to use larger cucumbers — just scoop out the seeds if they’re very watery.
Rice Vinegar: This brings a mild sweetness to the salad. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute, but start with a bit less to avoid overpowering the dish.
Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): These provide a nice heat with a hint of smokiness. If you don’t have them, crushed red pepper flakes or paprika mixed with a pinch of cayenne can work, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you need a change, you could use olive oil, but it won’t taste quite as authentic. Toasted sesame oil is stronger, so use it sparingly.
How Do You Get Cucumbers Crunchy and Delicious?
The key to this salad lies in how you prepare the cucumbers. Salting them helps draw out moisture, which is crucial for that crisp texture. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- After slicing, sprinkle the cucumbers with kosher salt and toss to coat.
- Let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes. This step helps get rid of excess water.
- Once done, gently squeeze them to remove any remaining moisture before mixing with the dressing.
Following these steps will ensure your salad remains crunchy and won’t become soggy!
Easy Korean Cucumber Salad Ready in Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers (Kirby or English cucumbers work well)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Simply slice your cucumbers, mix the dressing, and allow for a brief chilling (if you prefer) in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. In total, you can have a fresh and crunchy side ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers well. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help them absorb the flavors of the dressing better. Set them aside for the next step!
2. Salt and Drain:
Take the sliced cucumbers and place them in a colander over the sink. Sprinkle the kosher salt over the cucumber slices and toss them gently to ensure they’re evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture and keeps the salad nice and crunchy!
3. Pat Dry:
After the cucumbers have had their time to sit, gently squeeze them to remove excess water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This will help your salad stay fresh and not soggy.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and Korean red pepper flakes. Stir well until the sugar has completely dissolved and you have a nice, flavorful dressing.
5. Combine Cucumbers and Dressing:
Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with your dressing. Toss everything together gently until the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
6. Final Touches:
If you have toasted sesame seeds, sprinkle them over the salad and give everything a final gentle mix.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Korean Cucumber Salad is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to intensify those flavors. It makes for a refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! Kirby or English cucumbers are ideal for this salad due to their crunchiness, but you can substitute with regular slicing cucumbers. Just make sure to remove the seeds if they are overly watery.
How Spicy Is This Salad with Gochugaru?
The level of spiciness can vary based on the brand of gochugaru you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the amount and adjust to your taste. You can also omit it completely for a milder flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, for the best texture, enjoy it within a day, as cucumbers will release water over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like carrots or radishes for more color and texture. Just slice them thinly to ensure they mix well with the cucumbers!
