Korean Cucumber Salad

Name: Korean Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 Kirby cucumbers; 1 green onion; 1.5 teaspoons white distilled vinegar; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 small garlic clove; 2 teaspoons gochugaru; Sesame seeds

Published: November 24, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of gochugaru, vinegar, and sesame seeds creates a deliciously complex profile that excites the palate.
Versatile Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger Korean spread; it complements many dishes beautifully.
Health-Conscious Choice: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this salad fits well into various diet plans without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Korean cucumber salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These will help you prepare the ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Small bowl
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining cucumbers and dressing without making a mess.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise slicing of cucumbers ensuring even textures.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to chop vegetables safely.

Ingredients

This Korean cucumber salad recipe is packed with spicy, tart, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, with the most satisfying crunchy!

Vegetables

2 Kirby cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick pieces
1 green onion, chopped

Dressing

1 1/2 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 small garlic clove, minced

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds

How to Make Korean Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Mix the Vegetables

Place the cucumber slices and chopped green onion in a medium or large mixing bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together the vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir in the sugar and salt until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Combine the Dressing with the Veggies

Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices and green onions. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 4: Add Smokiness and Serve

Sprinkle gochugaru (Korean chili pepper flakes) and sesame seeds on top. Toss again until all cucumber slices are evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best crunch!

How to Serve Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad is a versatile dish that can enhance many meals. It adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant flavors to various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious salad.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside rice dishes to balance flavors.

In Tacos

Use it as a topping for Korean-style tacos for an added crunch.
The spicy and tart flavors complement savory fillings beautifully.

With Noodles

Toss it into cold noodles for a refreshing twist.
Adds texture and flavor to any noodle dish.

As Part of a Banchan Spread

Serve it as part of a traditional Korean banchan spread.
It pairs well with other small side dishes, offering variety.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

Add it to sandwiches or wraps for extra freshness.
Its crunchiness enhances the overall texture of the meal.

How to Perfect Korean Cucumber Salad

To make sure your Korean cucumber salad is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh cucumbers: Freshness ensures the best crunch and flavor. Kirby cucumbers are ideal due to their firm texture.
Adjust spice levels: Customize the amount of gochugaru based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure!
Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Experiment with vinegar: Try rice vinegar for a milder taste or apple cider vinegar for a fruity twist.
Add proteins: Include shredded chicken or tofu for a heartier dish, making it more filling.
Garnish generously: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds extra flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cucumber Salad

Korean cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Kimchi: A staple in Korean cuisine, this fermented vegetable dish offers bold flavors that complement the freshness of cucumber salad.
Japchae: Sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat create a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.
Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy chicken wings coated in sauce provide a savory counterpart to the crisp salad.
Rice Balls (Jumeokbap): These seasoned rice balls are easy to eat and provide a filling option alongside your meal.
Pickled Radish: The tangy, crunchy radish adds another layer of flavor while balancing richer dishes.
Tofu Stew (Sundubu-jjigae): This spicy soft tofu stew warms up any meal and pairs well with the coolness of cucumber salad.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add depth while keeping everything light and healthy.
Seaweed Salad: This offers a unique texture and briny flavor that harmonizes nicely with the fresh cucumber salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean cucumber salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Skipping the Salting Process: Not salting the cucumbers can lead to a watery salad. Make sure to salt them beforehand to draw out excess moisture.
Using Regular Cucumbers: Regular cucumbers can be too watery and bitter. Opt for Kirby cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.
Neglecting to Adjust Spice Levels: Gochugaru varies in heat. Taste your dressing before adding it all, and adjust according to your spice preference.
Overmixing the Salad: Tossing too aggressively can break apart the cucumbers. Gently mix to keep their crisp texture intact.
Serving Immediately After Preparation: Letting the salad sit for a few minutes allows flavors to meld. Allow it to rest before serving for a more flavorful experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
Keep in the vegetable crisper for optimal freshness.

Freezing Korean Cucumber Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
If necessary, freeze without dressing, then add dressing after thawing.

Reheating Korean Cucumber Salad

Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method is not ideal as it may soften the cucumbers.
Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals (10-15 seconds) until warmed. Again, this can affect crunchiness.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Use caution; this can also soften the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Korean Cucumber Salad?

Korean cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish made from cucumbers, green onions, and a flavorful sauce of vinegar, soy sauce, and gochugaru.

How long does Korean Cucumber Salad last?

When stored in an airtight container, Korean cucumber salad lasts about 2-3 days in the refrigerator while maintaining its crispness.

Can I customize my Korean Cucumber Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like carrots or radishes for extra crunch or adjust the spice level according to your taste.

What dishes pair well with Korean Cucumber Salad?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as part of a larger banchan spread alongside other Korean sides.

Is Korean Cucumber Salad vegan?

Yes! This recipe uses plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Final Thoughts

Korean cucumber salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its crunchy texture and vibrant flavors make it an excellent addition to any meal. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give this refreshing dish a try!

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