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5 from 6 votes

Easy Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe

This spicy easy Asian cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that you can serve with any meal. While there are many variations of this cucumber salad, this recipe is a fusion of my Korean and Chinese cultures. It includes ingredients that were commonly found in my family’s pantry, like gochugaru and Chinese black vinegar. 
Servings 2 people
Prep Time 35 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4-5 persian cucumbers
  • 1/2 tbsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tsp black vinegar substitute with rice vinegar or white 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!

Video

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese, Fusion, Korean