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Spicy Cucumber Salad

Delicious Spicy Cucumber Salad That Will Refresh Your Summer

This Spicy Cucumber Salad combines vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch, making it the perfect low-calorie side dish for summer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 50

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2–3 pieces English Cucumbers Choose firm cucumbers to best absorb the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Helps draw out excess moisture.
  • 3 pieces Green Onions (Scallions) Thinly sliced for easy mixing.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru) Provides the signature spicy kick.
  • 1–2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for aromatic depth.
  • 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Contributes a bright and tangy flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Balances heat and acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Opt for toasted variety for richer taste.
For the Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Toasted for extra crunch and flavor.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Paper towel
  • whisk
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Cucumber Salad
  1. Begin by slicing 2–3 firm English cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds or half-moons. Sprinkle cucumbers with salt and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  2. After resting, drain excess moisture and pat cucumber slices dry to maintain their crunch.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together gochugaru, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the dried cucumber slices. Add thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Serve immediately for the best freshness and crunch. Garnish with additional sesame seeds and scallion slices if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 2gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, serve immediately after mixing. You can slice and salt cucumbers 24 hours in advance, and the dressing can be prepared 3 days in advance.

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