Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish is ready in 30 minutes.
• Spicy and Refreshing: The Korean chili powder adds just the right amount of heat, balanced by the freshness of cucumbers.
• Light and Healthy: Low in calories, it’s the perfect side dish for a lighter meal or to complement your favorite Korean dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons Korean chili powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Rinse and Dry: After 20 minutes, rinse the cucumbers under cold water and pat them dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine Korean chili powder, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Toss Everything Together: Add the cucumbers, minced garlic, and chopped green onion to the bowl. Toss everything until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spice: Add more Korean chili powder or a few slices of fresh chili if you like extra heat.
• Cucumber Alternatives: Try other crunchy vegetables like zucchini or daikon radish for a twist on this recipe.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will meld together even more!
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular chili powder instead of Korean chili powder?

Korean chili powder has a unique flavor and heat level, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with regular chili powder or red pepper flakes.

2. How do I make this salad less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Korean chili powder or omit it for a milder version.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made ahead of time to let the flavors marinate. It will last for 2-3 days in the fridge.

4. Can I use a different oil instead of sesame oil?

Sesame oil adds a unique flavor, but you can use another mild oil if you prefer.

5. Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad is vegan-friendly!

Conclusion

This Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad is the perfect side dish when you’re craving something fresh, spicy, and packed with flavor. With its easy preparation and bold taste, it’s a fantastic addition to any meal or a quick snack on its own. Enjoy the perfect balance of heat and freshness in every bite!

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