Delightfully crisp and refreshing, Kiyuri Namasu Cucumber Salad is a traditional Japanese side dish thatβs as simple to prepare as it is flavorful. Featuring thinly sliced Japanese or English cucumbers, this salad is elevated with a tangy-sweet dressing made of rice vinegar, sugar, and a splash of soy sauce, perfectly balanced to complement its light and hydrating base. The cucumbers are lightly salted to draw out excess moisture, ensuring a satisfying crunch in every bite, while optional toasted sesame seeds add a delicate nutty finish. Ready in just 15 minutes and requiring no cooking, itβs the perfect addition to your weeknight meals, sushi platters, or summertime gatherings. Whether served chilled or fresh, this elegant cucumber salad is a must-try recipe for lovers of Japanese cuisine.
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.
Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds. If using larger cucumbers, you may want to cut them into half-moons first by slicing them in half lengthwise.
Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss well to coat and let sit for 5 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, ensuring they stay crisp.
While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing by combining rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
After 5 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove the excess liquid. Discard the liquid and return the cucumbers to the bowl.
Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers and toss well to combine.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle sesame seeds on top, if using.
Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately as a refreshing side dish.
Calories |
221 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.1 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2578 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42.9 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.1 g | ||
| Protein | 6.3 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 186 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 944 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.