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Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe

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  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-cook / marinated
  • Cuisine: Korean-inspired
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A fresh, crisp Korean cucumber salad (Oi Muchim-inspired) with spicy gochugaru, tangy rice vinegar, and nutty sesame oil. It’s a quick, no-cook side dish that delivers bold flavor and perfect crunch in every bite.


Ingredients

  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers, toss well, and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Drain released liquid and gently pat cucumbers dry with paper towels.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix green onions, garlic, gochugaru, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and sesame seeds.
  5. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Let the salad rest for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Notes

  • English cucumbers work best for maximum crunch and minimal seeds.
  • Adjust gochugaru to control spice level.
  • For extra sweetness, add a small drizzle of honey.
  • Optional additions include red onion, shredded carrots, or a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 1 cup
  • Calories: 70
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg