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Cucumber Salad 3 Ways (Asian, Korean & Creamy)

Master the art of cucumber salads with these three incredibly easy, refreshing, and distinct variations: Tangy Asian, Spicy Korean, and Classic Creamy Dill.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings per variation
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian, Korean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Asian Cucumber Salad
  • 2 large cucumbers thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp salt for draining
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad
  • 2 large cucumbers thinly sliced
  • 0.5 tsp salt for draining
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp gochugaru Korean red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
Creamy Cucumber Salad
  • 2 large cucumbers thinly sliced
  • 0.5 medium red onion thinly sliced (optional)
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Colander
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. For all variations: Place sliced cucumbers in a colander, toss with the specified amount of salt, and let sit for 15-30 minutes. Squeeze out excess liquid and pat dry.
  2. Asian Style: Whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger. Toss with drained cucumbers. Garnish with peanuts and green onions.
  3. Korean Style: Mix minced garlic, gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss aggressively with drained cucumbers. Garnish with sesame seeds.
  4. Creamy Style: Whisk sour cream, mayo, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in drained cucumbers, red onions, and fresh dill. Chill before serving.

Notes

Do not skip the salting/draining step! It is critical for ensuring your salads stay crunchy and your dressings do not become watery.