Korean Cucumber Salad

Name: Korean Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489740H18M11S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 5 mini cucumbers (or 2-3 regular); 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; Optional: 3 tbsp green onions (diced)

Published: July 10, 2025

by Sofia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Easy to make and bursting with flavor, Korean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that suits any occasion. This simple yet delightful cold side dish features mini cucumbers tossed in an Asian-inspired dressing, making it perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light appetizer. You can customize the spice level to your liking, whether you prefer it on the milder side or with a spicy kick. Its unique combination of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also makes it visually appealing.

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 salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or even as part of a vegetarian meal.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the chili oil to cater to your taste; keep it mild or crank up the heat!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh cucumbers and minimal added sugars, this salad is light and nutritious.
Vibrant Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a deliciously tangy dressing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Korean Cucumber Salad effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for uniform slices of cucumber, enhancing presentation.
Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
Measuring spoons: Guarantees precise measurements for consistent flavor each time you make this salad.

Ingredients

Easy Korean cucumber salad with Asian dressing is a delicious cold side dish or vegetarian dish. You can make it spicy or leave a bit sweet.

Fresh Ingredients

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 Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, sugar, sesame seeds, and green onion. Add rice vinegar along with all of the oils. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers

Use a spiralizer for fun spirals or slice thinly with a sharp knife. Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 8-12 minutes.

Step 3: Rinse and Toss

After sitting, rinse the salted cucumbers with water. Lay them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Place them in a bowl and pour the rice vinegar marinade over them. Toss gently to coat thoroughly. Serve topped with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

This easy-to-make Korean Cucumber Salad will surely impress your guests! Enjoy this refreshing dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

How to Serve Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad is a versatile dish that complements many meals. Its refreshing taste and crunchy texture make it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful salad.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with spicy dishes to balance the heat.

In Tacos

Use as a topping in fish or pork tacos for added crunch.
The tangy flavors enhance the overall taste of your taco.

With Rice Dishes

Serve over steamed rice or grain bowls for a nutritious boost.
It adds color and flavor, making your meal more appealing.

As a Snack

Enjoy it on its own as a light and healthy snack.
The crisp cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch.

In Wraps

Add to wraps or sandwiches for extra freshness.
It complements proteins like chicken or tofu nicely.

How to Perfect Korean Cucumber Salad

To achieve the best version of Korean cucumber salad, consider these helpful tips. Each one will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

Choose fresh cucumbers: Fresh mini cucumbers are ideal for their crunchiness. If using regular cucumbers, make sure they are firm and not overripe.
Salt properly: Salting the cucumbers helps draw out excess moisture. This ensures your salad remains crisp and doesn’t become watery.
Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of chili oil based on your preference. Start with less if you’re unsure about the heat.
Marinate longer: Allowing the cucumbers to sit in the marinade enhances flavor absorption. Aim for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Garnish thoughtfully: Adding sesame seeds and green onions right before serving adds visual appeal and additional flavor.
Experiment with variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cucumber Salad

Pairing your Korean cucumber salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Grilled Kalbi: Tender marinated beef short ribs that pair well with the refreshing salad.
Spicy Kimchi: A traditional fermented dish that adds heat and complexity to your meal.
Steamed Rice: Plain white or brown rice balances the bold flavors of the cucumber salad.
Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken provides a delicious contrast to the coolness of the salad.
Japchae: Sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables offer a sweet and savory option alongside the salad.
Tofu Stir-Fry: Lightly seasoned tofu cooked with veggies can create a satisfying vegetarian meal when served with cucumber salad.
Pickled Radish: A crunchy, tangy addition that complements rich dishes beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm, savory soup that rounds out your meal nicely while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean cucumber salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting the cucumbers can make your salad watery. Always sprinkle salt on cucumbers and let them sit to draw out excess moisture.
Over-Seasoning with Soy Sauce: Adding too much soy sauce can overpower the flavors. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted cucumbers affects texture and flavor. Always choose fresh mini cucumbers for a crisp bite.
Ignoring Spice Levels: Adding too much chili oil can make it overly spicy for some. Adjust the quantity of chili oil based on your preference for mild or spicy.
Not Allowing Time to Marinate: Serving immediately after mixing may not allow flavors to meld. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Use within 2-3 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Korean Cucumber Salad

Freezing is not recommended as cucumbers become mushy when thawed.
Enjoy fresh for the best experience.

Reheating Korean Cucumber Salad

Oven: Not applicable; this salad is served cold.
Microwave: Avoid reheating; it’s best enjoyed chilled.
Stovetop: Not suitable; serve directly from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about Korean cucumber salad.

What is Korean Cucumber Salad?

Korean cucumber salad is a refreshing cold dish made with cucumbers, garlic, vinegar, and sesame oil, perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Can I make Korean Cucumber Salad spicy?

Yes! You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili oil used in the recipe.

How long can I store Korean Cucumber Salad?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

What ingredients can I customize in this salad?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or substitute different oils based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Korean cucumber salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste, whether you prefer it spicy or sweet. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, this refreshing salad is sure to impress at any meal—give it a try!

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

📖 Recipe Card