Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with bold flavors, Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. This quick and easy recipe combines crunchy Kirby or Persian cucumbers with a vibrant dressing of gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes), soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil, creating a tantalizing balance of spice, tang, and nuttiness. A touch of garlic, green onions, and sesame seeds adds depth and texture, while a light salting technique ensures maximum crunchiness in every bite. Ready in just 15 minutes, this chilled salad is a low-effort, high-impact addition to Korean BBQ spreads, rice bowls, or as a palate-cleansing appetizer. Wholesome, flavorful, and irresistibly good, it's a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Korean flavors!
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss well to evenly distribute the salt.
Let the cucumbers sit for 10 minutes. This will draw out excess water and enhance the crunch.
After 10 minutes, drain the cucumbers and gently squeeze out any remaining water. Pat them dry using a paper towel.
In a separate small bowl, mix the gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss well to coat each piece evenly.
Add the chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Gently mix again to combine.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. This salad is best served cold and fresh.
Calories |
276 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.3 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2955 mg | 128% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 29.8 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.6 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.1 g | ||
| Protein | 6.9 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 102 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 952 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.