Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad

These slinky cucumbers are irresistibly cute, delicious, and SUPER refreshing! Making these were so much fun because they brought back memories of my childhood. They remind me so much of slinkies (the real ones know heh).

I’ve been craving a cold and refreshing side dish lately and after seeing all these slinky cucumber videos on social media, I knew I had to try it for myself. I wanted to fuse my Korean and Chinese heritage so I included ingredients that I grew up enjoying like gochugaru and Chinese black vinegar. Let’s just say this was busssssin’.

It’s important to draw out the moisture from the cucumbers by salting it and letting it sit for 20-30 minutes. Doing this will result in a super crunchy and tasty cucumber. Please don’t skip this step!

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy cucumbers, give my recipe a try! 🙂

5 from 4 votes

Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad

Servings 2 people

Prep Time 35 mins

Total Time 35 mins

Ingredients

• 4-5 persian cucumbers
• 1/2 tbsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp black vinegar or rice wine vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp gochugaru Korean red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 tbsp chili oil
• 4 garlic cloves grated
• 1 tsp sesame seeds plus more for garnish

Instructions

• Cut or smash the cucumbers. If you want the 'slinky' effect, lay the cucumber in between to chopsticks. Cut the cucumber into 1/4 inch slices vertically, making sure not the cut all the way through. Flip the cucumber and cut into a 45 degree angle into 1/4 inch slices.
• Transfer the cucumbers into a bowl and add salt. Mix together and set aside for 20-30 minutes.
• In the meantime, let's prepare the sauce. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, black vinegar, gochugaru, chili oil, garlic, and sesame seeds. Mix together well.
• After 20-30 minutes, rinse the cucumbers in cold water and pat dry well with a paper towel.
• Transfer to a bowl and toss with the sauce mixture.
• Serve and enjoy!

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: Chinese, Fusion, Korean

Pin & save this recipe for later!