Method
Slice the cucumbers
Rinse and dry 500 g of English cucumbers. Trim off the ends, halve the cucumbers lengthwise, and slice them crosswise into even 4 to 5 mm (about 3/16-inch) half-moons. Transfer the slices to a large mixing bowl.
Make the sesame dressing
Slice 30 g of scallions thinly and set them beside the bowl. Mince 1 garlic clove into a small bowl. Add 30 ml of unseasoned rice vinegar, 15 ml of reduced-sodium soy sauce (contains soy and wheat), 10 ml of toasted sesame oil, 8 g of granulated sugar, and 5 g of gochugaru. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the dressing looks evenly blended.
Toss the salad
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add the sliced scallions and 9 g of toasted sesame seeds, then toss gently but thoroughly, lifting from the bottom so every slice gets a light coating without bruising the cucumber.
Rest briefly and serve
Let the salad stand for 5 minutes so the flavors settle and a small amount of cucumber juice loosens the dressing. Toss once more, taste a cucumber slice, and serve immediately while the texture is crisp.
05:00
Smart Substitutions
- No English cucumbers? Use Persian or Kirby cucumbers; choose firm ones with small seeds and slice them to the same thickness.
- No gochugaru? Use Aleppo pepper or mild red pepper flakes, starting with less because heat levels vary.
- No rice vinegar? Use unseasoned apple cider vinegar for a slightly fruitier tang.
- Need a wheat-free variation? Use tamari in place of soy sauce and check the label because formulations differ.
Tips and Variations
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices so the dressing reaches every piece at the same rate.
- Whisk the dressing until the sugar is nearly dissolved before it touches the cucumber.
- Serve the salad with rice, grilled tofu, bulgogi-style dishes, or noodles for a cool, crisp contrast.
What Went Wrong?
- Salad turns watery immediately Dry the cucumbers thoroughly before slicing and pour off any excess liquid before the final toss.
- Dressing tastes too salty Fold in more plain cucumber and add a small splash of rice vinegar to rebalance it.
- Salad is hotter than expected Add a pinch more sugar and a little rice vinegar, then toss and taste again.
- Sesame flavor tastes bitter Use fresh toasted sesame oil and seeds; stale sesame products can taste harsh rather than nutty.
Nutrition Estimate
- Fiber: 1 g per serving
- Sodium: 133 mg per serving
Nutrition disclaimer:This recipe is provided for general cooking information only. Nutrition values are estimates and may vary by ingredients, brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes. Check ingredient labels and follow appropriate food-safety practices. This content is not medical, dietary, allergy, or professional food-safety advice.
