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Crunchy Korean Cucumber Salad

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4 from 61 reviews

This vibrant Asian-inspired cucumber and carrot salad is a perfect 15-minute side dish for summer. It offers a refreshing crunch paired with bold flavors from a zesty dressing featuring gochugaru and soy sauce. Light, easy to prepare, and packed with texture, this salad is ideal for quick meals or as a flavorful accompaniment.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
  • 2 large carrots, julienned or finely shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or cilantro)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Dressing

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp gochugaru Korean red chili flakes
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • ½ tsp sugar or maple syrup

Garnish

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Optional: carrot ribbons, green onion, chopped roasted peanuts or cashews

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry the cucumber and carrots thoroughly. Julienne or shred them evenly to ensure consistent texture and ease of tossing in the salad.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar until the mixture becomes glossy and well combined.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: Add the cucumber, carrot, parsley, and minced garlic into a large mixing bowl, preparing them for the dressing.
  4. Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture, making sure to coat all pieces evenly.
  5. Toss the salad: Toss everything together thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds: Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad and toss gently once more to distribute them.
  7. Rest or serve: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully, or serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

  • To make ahead, store the vegetables and dressing separately for up to 24 hours and toss just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • For less spicy heat, reduce the amount of gochugaru or substitute with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Add chickpeas, grilled tofu, or shrimp to convert this salad into a more substantial meal.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/crunchy-korean-cucumber-salad/