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Fresh Korean-Style Cucumber Salad with Spicy Sesame Dressing

Fresh Korean-Style Cucumber Salad - featured image
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A bright, refreshing, and slightly spicy cucumber salad with a nutty sesame dressing, perfect for quick lunches or as a crunchy side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced (seedless works best)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers thinly into rounds about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick and place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt evenly over the cucumbers, toss gently, and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon red chili flakes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, add 2 thinly sliced green onions, and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Salt cucumbers to prevent sogginess by drawing out excess water. Use toasted sesame oil for rich, nutty flavor. Adjust chili flakes gradually to control heat. Best eaten fresh for optimal crunch. Can substitute tamari for gluten-free soy sauce. Optional fresh ginger adds extra zing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, Korean salad, spicy sesame dressing, quick salad, healthy side dish, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/fresh-korean-style-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-spicy-sesame-dressing/