Craving a refreshing and incredibly flavorful side dish? Look no further than this viral Korean cucumber salad! This simple recipe transforms ordinary cucumbers into a vibrant and addictive culinary experience. Forget bland salads; this dish bursts with the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy notes, thanks to a magical combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar. It's the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, rice bowls, or even enjoyed on its own as a light and satisfying meal. The ingredients are readily available, and the preparation is surprisingly quick.
This incredibly easy-to-make Korean cucumber salad is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The bright, refreshing flavors will quickly become a family favorite. Ready to transform your culinary repertoire with this sensational side? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delicious Korean Cucumber Salad together!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- English cucumbers: 3 cups
- Salt: 10 grams
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Honey: 2 tablespoons
- Chili oil: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar
- Sesame seeds
- Cashews
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Cucumbers
- Thinly slice English cucumbers. You can adjust the thickness to your preference.
- Add approximately 10 grams of salt to the cucumbers (adjust based on the amount of cucumbers). Mix well and add water. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain the water from the cucumbers.
Step 2. Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon chili oil, a pinch of sugar, and sesame seeds.
- Add the cashews to the sauce and mix well.
Step 3. Combine and Serve
- Add the drained cucumbers to the sauce and mix thoroughly.
Read more: Spicy Crunchy Korean Stuffed Cucumber Kimchi (Oi-sobagi) Recipe
Tips
- This recipe comes together quickly—around 15 minutes!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this Korean cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! It's even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What can I substitute for gochujang if I don't have any?
You can try a combination of sriracha and a little sweet chili sauce for a similar spicy-sweet flavor, but the taste won't be exactly the same. Gochujang is key to the authentic flavor.
This vibrant and flavorful Korean cucumber salad is a recipe you'll want to keep coming back to. Its refreshing taste and simple preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and unforgettable flavor of this viral sensation!