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Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 617 reviews

A refreshing and spicy Korean cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy vinegar-soy dressing, enhanced with garlic, gochugaru chili flakes, and toasted sesame seeds. This quick and easy side dish perfectly balances crisp textures with bold, vibrant flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to any Korean-inspired meal or a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 Kirby cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick pieces
  • 1 green onion, chopped

Dressing

  • 1 1/2 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Garnish

  • 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Mix the vegetables: Place the cucumber slices and chopped green onion in a medium or large mixing bowl and set aside.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the white distilled vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir in the sugar and salt, continuing to mix until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a balanced tangy and savory dressing.
  3. Combine the dressing with the veggies: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber slices and green onions. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every slice is well coated with the flavorful dressing.
  4. Add smokiness and serve: Sprinkle the Korean chili pepper flakes and sesame seeds over the salad. Toss again until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the spicy flakes and nutty sesame seeds, then serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Use Kirby cucumbers or other firm cucumbers to maintain a crisp texture.
  • Adjust the amount of gochugaru according to your heat preference.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
  • For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili flakes.
  • Toasted sesame seeds intensify the nutty flavor—toast them lightly if using raw seeds.

Keywords: Korean cucumber salad, spicy cucumber salad, gochugaru cucumber side dish, Korean side dish, vegan Korean salad

Find it online: https://annakocht.com/korean-cucumber-salad-recipe/