The vibrant crunch of cucumbers meets a fiery kick in this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe, making it an irresistible side dish. Imagine biting into crisp, refreshing cucumbers dancing with spicy garlic and tangy vinegar, creating a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds do the cha-cha.

I remember the first time I tried this salad at a friend’s BBQ. The moment I took a bite, it was like my mouth was greeted by a firework show of flavors. Perfect for summer picnics or as a zesty accompaniment to grilled meats, this dish is sure to bring smiles (and perhaps a few happy tears) to your table.

Ingredients for Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers with smooth skin; they are the stars of this salad and should be crisp and juicy.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic punch; opt for cloves that feel firm to the touch for maximum flavor.

• Red Pepper Flakes: These provide the heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance—go wild if you dare!

• Rice Vinegar: This tangy ingredient balances the heat beautifully; use unseasoned rice vinegar for an authentic taste.

• Sugar: A pinch of sugar counters the heat and acidity, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

For Seasoning:

• Sesame Oil: This nutty oil adds depth; look for toasted sesame oil for extra flavor.

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions brighten up the dish with their mild onion flavor and fresh color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe

Start by prepping those cucumbers. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. The thinner they are, the more deliciously they soak up all those flavorful ingredients.

Next, toss those sliced cucumbers into a large bowl. Add a sprinkle of salt and let them sit for about ten minutes. Salting helps draw out excess moisture and enhances their crispness.

While waiting, prepare your dressing. In a separate bowl, mix minced garlic, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined. You want everything mingling together like old friends at a reunion.

Once your cucumbers have softened slightly from salting, drain any excess liquid. Add them back into the bowl along with your dressing mixture and chopped green onions. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each piece is coated in that spicy goodness.

Let your salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least fifteen minutes before serving. This waiting period allows all those fantastic flavors to marry together beautifully—trust me; it’s worth it!

When ready to serve, give it another gentle toss and check for seasoning. If you desire more spice or sweetness, adjust accordingly! Serve chilled as an exciting side dish or enjoy it as a light snack on its own.

This Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen! So gather friends around (preferably those who can handle some spice), dig in, and watch everyone reach for seconds—or thirds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad recipe, start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. While they’re draining, mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad! Swap out cucumbers for radishes or add sesame seeds for an extra crunch. You could even throw in some sliced bell peppers or carrots if you want to venture beyond the traditional recipe.

Storing & Reheating

For optimal freshness, store your Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days, but if you must reheat, do so gently on low heat to avoid wilting the veggies.

It was at my friend’s summer barbecue when I first made this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Everyone raved about it and said it was the star of the show—who knew cucumbers could steal the spotlight?

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe?

To make this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad, you will need fresh cucumbers, garlic, red chili flakes, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. These ingredients come together to create a refreshing and spicy flavor profile. You can also add sesame seeds for garnish and some green onions for extra crunch. Using quality ingredients will enhance the taste of your salad, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

How long does the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad last in the refrigerator?

Once prepared, the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator. To maintain its crispness and flavor, store it in an airtight container. The cucumbers will release some water over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh within a day or two for optimal taste. If you notice any excess liquid, simply drain it off before serving.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily adjust the heat level in your Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad by modifying the amount of red chili flakes used. For a milder version, reduce the quantity or omit them entirely. Conversely, if you enjoy more heat, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers or increasing the red chili flakes. Personalizing this recipe allows you to cater it to your taste preferences.

Is there a vegan alternative for this salad dressing?

Yes! The dressing for the Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is already plant-based. It includes vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and red chili flakes—all vegan-friendly ingredients. If you want to enhance its flavor further without compromising on dietary preferences, consider adding additional herbs like cilantro or mint. This versatility makes it easy to enjoy while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.

Conclusion for Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe:

In summary, this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe is a quick and delightful dish that combines freshness with just the right amount of heat. By using simple ingredients like cucumbers and spices, you can create an appetizer or side dish that complements any meal. Feel free to adjust spiciness levels according to your preference for an even more personalized touch. Enjoy this refreshing salad as part of your next gathering or weeknight dinner!

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Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that combines the crunch of fresh cucumbers with a delightful kick from garlic and red pepper flakes. Dressed in a tangy rice vinegar mixture, this salad is quick to prepare and adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a zesty complement to grilled dishes, it’s sure to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium fresh cucumbers, sliced thinly
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix minced garlic, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Drain excess liquid from the cucumbers and return them to the bowl. Add the dressing and chopped green onions; toss gently.
4. Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: None
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 68
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg