Description
This refreshing Korean Cucumber Salad combines crisp cucumbers with a savory, tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness. Enhanced with garlic, green onions, sesame seeds, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this quick and easy salad is perfect as a light side dish or appetizer that brings a burst of vibrant flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onion
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Condiments
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Other
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Remove Cucumber Seeds: Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to carefully remove the seeds from each half.
- Slice Cucumber: Cut the cucumber into thin half-moon slices approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure even flavor absorption.
- Salt the Cucumber: Place the sliced cucumber in a medium bowl and evenly sprinkle the salt over them.
- Release Excess Water: Toss the salted cucumber slices to distribute the salt, then let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Drain Cucumber: After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumber slices to remove any remaining liquid, preventing sogginess.
- Add Sugar: Sprinkle the sugar over the cucumbers and toss well to combine and balance flavors.
- Add Vinegar and Oil: Pour in the rice vinegar and sesame oil, stirring to coat the cucumber evenly with the dressing.
- Mix Soy Sauce and Garlic: Stir in the soy sauce and minced garlic to infuse the salad with savory depth.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and toss gently to incorporate their nutty flavor.
- Add Green Onion: Mix in the chopped green onion for freshness and mild pungency.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad and toss everything together to distribute the gentle heat.
- Allow Flavors to Meld: Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes so all flavors can blend perfectly before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use a crisp, firm cucumber such as English or Persian cucumbers.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature shortly after preparation.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
