Name: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485208H51M43S
Total time: PT-485208H51M43S
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 medium cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work best); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes); 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spicy Korean cucumber salad is light, refreshing, and full of bold flavors. The coolness of the cucumber contrasts beautifully with the spicy and tangy dressing, making each bite a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and makes an excellent side dish that complements a variety of Korean or Asian-inspired meals. The salad is also versatile—adjust the spice level to your liking and enjoy the bright, vibrant flavors as a snack, appetizer, or side.

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers (English or Persian cucumbers work best)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
1 teaspoon sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
1-2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers and slice them into thin rounds or half-moons. If using regular cucumbers, you can peel them, but Persian or English cucumbers can be left unpeeled.
Salt the cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Toss the cucumbers to coat evenly, then let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to draw out excess water from the cucumbers, making the salad crispier.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochugaru, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved, and the dressing is evenly mixed.
Drain the cucumbers: After the cucumbers have released some water, give them a quick rinse under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.
Toss the cucumbers with the dressing: Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing and toss until all the cucumbers are coated.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Increase the spice: If you like your salad extra spicy, add more gochugaru or a drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for added heat.
Add a protein: To make the salad more substantial, add a few slices of grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
Sweet and sour version: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch to balance the spiciness.
Cucumber and daikon: For extra texture and flavor, combine cucumbers with thinly sliced daikon radish, which adds a mild crunch and freshness to the salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover spicy Korean cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will continue to release water, so you may need to drain it before serving.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. Simply toss it again before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian or English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they may have a thicker skin and more seeds. Be sure to peel them if desired, and remove the seeds if they are large.

2. Is gochugaru essential for this recipe?

Yes, gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) gives the salad its signature flavor and spice. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with another type of chili flakes, but the flavor will be slightly different.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a few minutes in the fridge helps the flavors develop. However, it’s best to eat it within a day or two for the freshest taste.

4. Can I use regular vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

Yes, you can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of rice vinegar, but rice vinegar adds a milder, sweeter flavor that works best in this dish.

5. How do I adjust the spiciness of the salad?

You can adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes). For a milder version, reduce the quantity or use a less spicy chili powder.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even thinly sliced cabbage for added texture and flavor.

7. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, this spicy Korean cucumber salad is vegan as long as the dressing ingredients are vegan-friendly. All the ingredients used in the dressing are plant-based.

8. Can I add sugar substitutes for a healthier version?

Yes, you can substitute the sugar with alternatives like stevia, agave, or maple syrup, depending on your dietary preferences.

9. Can I use toasted sesame oil?

Yes, toasted sesame oil will add a more intense, nutty flavor to the salad. If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular sesame oil.

10. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Spicy Korean cucumber salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release more water as they sit, so you may need to drain some liquid before serving.

Conclusion

Spicy Korean cucumber salad is a perfect blend of heat, tang, and crunch, making it an irresistible dish that will brighten up any meal. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic addition to any Korean-inspired menu or as a quick side dish when you’re craving something fresh and spicy. Enjoy it as a starter, side, or light snack, and adjust the spice level to match your preferences. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!