Crispy Cucumber and Onion Salad
Simple Side Dish Recipe: Refreshing Cucumber and Onion Salad
This is an incredibly easy and quick cucumber and onion salad. It’s perfect for a light and refreshing side dish, offering a delightful crisp texture and a balanced sweet and savory flavor profile. Ideal for any meal, especially on warmer days!
Main Ingredients
- 1 cucumber
- 1/4 onion
Seasoning Ingredients
- 1.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce or tuna extract
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or 0.5 Tbsp sugar)
- Sesame seeds, to garnish
- 1.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce or tuna extract
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or 0.5 Tbsp sugar)
- Sesame seeds, to garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the cucumber thoroughly. You can peel it if you prefer, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Slice it in half lengthwise, then thinly slice it on a bias (diagonally). This shape helps the cucumber absorb the dressing well.
Step 2
Peel the 1/4 onion and slice it into thin matchsticks. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking and texture.
Step 3
To mellow out the sharp, pungent flavor of the onion, soak the sliced onion in cold water for about 5 minutes. This step enhances the sweetness of the onion and makes it more pleasant to eat.
Step 4
After soaking, drain the onion slices thoroughly using a sieve. Squeeze out any excess water to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Place the drained onion into a mixing bowl with the sliced cucumbers.
Step 5
Now, let’s prepare the delicious seasoning. Add 1.5 tablespoons of red pepper flakes (gochugaru) for color and a mild kick.
Step 6
For a clean and savory taste, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang). This type of soy sauce has a lighter, brinier flavor ideal for this dish.
Step 7
Add 1 tablespoon of tuna extract (or fish sauce) to boost the umami flavor. This ingredient adds a wonderful depth of savory taste.
Step 8
For a touch of sweetness and complexity, add 1 tablespoon of plum extract. If you don’t have plum extract, you can substitute it with 0.5 tablespoon of sugar. Adjust sweetness to your preference.
Step 9
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds over the mixture. Rubbing the sesame seeds between your palms before adding them can release more of their nutty aroma.
Step 10
Gently toss and mix all the ingredients together with your hands until everything is well combined. Be careful not to over-mix or mash the ingredients; a gentle tossing motion is best.
Step 11
Transfer the finished cucumber and onion salad to a serving dish. Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful side dish immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for a cooler, more intense flavor. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal!
