Korean Cucumber Salad

Name: Korean Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486641H22M53S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular cucumbers); 1 tsp salt; 1.5 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp minced garlic; 3 tbsp rice vinegar; 2-3 tsp chili oil (to taste); 3 tsp sugar; 1 tsp sesame oil; Optional: 2 tsp sesame seeds, 3 tbsp diced green onions

Published: July 2, 2025

by Emilia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Easy Korean cucumber salad with Asian dressing is a delicious cold side dish or vegetarian dish. This refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a side dish for your favorite Asian meal. Its unique combination of flavors makes it a standout option that you can easily adjust to be spicy or sweet, depending on your taste.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Korean cucumber salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful and Fresh: The mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic creates a vibrant dressing that complements the crisp cucumbers beautifully.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side for barbecues, potlucks, or even alongside breakfast dishes; this salad fits in anywhere!
Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness with chili oil to cater to your preference—make it mild for kids or spicy for adults.
Healthy and Light: With low calories and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also a guilt-free addition to your meals.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Korean cucumber salad, having the right tools can make the process smoother. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp Knife
Mixing Bowl
Spiralizer (optional)
Measuring Spoons
Paper Towels

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp Knife: A good knife allows for precise cutting of cucumbers into thin slices, ensuring even marination.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl provides enough space to combine the cucumbers with the dressing without spilling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Korean cucumber salad:

5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular sizes, 4 cups)
1 tsp salt
1.5 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp minced garlic
3 tbsp rice vinegar
2-3 tsp chili oil (adjust more or less for spicy or mild)
3 tsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
3 tbsp green onions (diced, optional)

How to Make Korean Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, sugar, sesame seeds, and green onion.
Add rice vinegar, soy sauce, and both types of oil (sesame oil and chili oil) to the mixture.
Stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 2: Prepare the Cucumbers

Use a spiralizer to create fun shapes from the cucumbers, or simply slice them thinly with a sharp knife.
Sprinkle salt over the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for about 8-12 minutes. This helps draw out excess water.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Rinse the salted cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt.
Lay them on paper towels to absorb extra moisture.
Place the cucumbers in a mixing bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to coat all slices with the dressing.
Optional: Top with additional sesame seeds and green onions. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your Korean cucumber salad as a delightful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that can enhance any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this tasty side.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside grilled meats for a crunchy contrast.
Pair with rice dishes to balance flavors and add a refreshing crunch.

In Tacos or Wraps

Add it to tacos for a zesty, cool topping.
Use as a filling in wraps for added texture and flavor.

As Part of a Bento Box

Include in your bento box for a pop of color and freshness.
Combine with other vegetables for a balanced meal.

With Asian Noodles

Toss into cold noodle salads for extra crunch and flavor.
Mix with soba noodles for a delicious fusion dish.

How to Perfect Korean Cucumber Salad

To ensure your Korean cucumber salad shines, follow these simple tips.

Use fresh cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers will yield the best flavor and texture.
Adjust spiciness: Tailor the chili oil to your spice preference; less for mild, more for heat.
Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Serve chilled: For the best experience, serve the salad cold after marinating.
Garnish generously: Add extra sesame seeds and green onions just before serving for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Kimchi: This spicy fermented cabbage dish complements the freshness of cucumber salad perfectly.
Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s delicate flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring smoky notes that enhance the overall meal experience.
Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites provide a satisfying contrast in texture alongside the salad.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is soothing and pairs well with cold dishes like this salad.
Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry: The protein-packed tofu stir-fry adds depth and makes it a complete meal.
Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles elevate any meal when served with Korean cucumber salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Korean cucumber salad is easy, but small mistakes can affect the flavor and texture.

Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting cucumbers can lead to a watery salad. Always salt them and let them sit before rinsing.
Using Regular Cucumbers: Regular cucumbers can be bitter. Opt for mini cucumbers for a sweeter taste and crunchier texture.
Neglecting to Adjust Spice Levels: Not adjusting the chili oil can make the dish too spicy or not spicy enough. Start with less and add more to taste.
Over-Mixing the Salad: Over-mixing can cause the cucumbers to break down and become mushy. Gently toss to combine.
Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Leaving out sesame seeds or green onions means missing out on extra flavor and texture. Use them if you can!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh longer.
Consume within 3 days for best flavor and crispness.

Freezing Korean Cucumber Salad

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as cucumbers lose their crunch when thawed.

Reheating Korean Cucumber Salad

Oven: Not applicable as this dish is served cold.
Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it alters the texture of the cucumbers.
Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve cold directly from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Korean Cucumber Salad?

Korean cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish made with cucumbers, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and optional spices like chili oil. It’s perfect for summer meals.

How do I make my Korean Cucumber Salad spicier?

To increase the heat in your Korean cucumber salad, add more chili oil or consider including red pepper flakes or Sriracha in your dressing.

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

Yes, while mini cucumbers are preferred for their sweetness and crunch, you can substitute with regular cucumbers if needed. Just ensure they are peeled and deseeded.

How should I serve Korean Cucumber Salad?

Serve it chilled as a side dish or appetizer. It pairs well with grilled meats or rice dishes and is great for picnics.

How long does Korean Cucumber Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts about three days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Korean cucumber salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that adds freshness to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize spice levels and additional ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card