Sunomono Salad
Delight your taste buds with this refreshing and tangy Sunomono Salad, a classic Japanese cucumber salad that’s light, flavorful, and effortlessly easy to prepare. Featuring thinly sliced Japanese or English cucumbers, this simple dish is elevated by a delicate balance of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from sugar. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and optional wakame for a hint of the sea, it’s a perfect mix of crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Add crab sticks or cooked shrimp for a protein-packed twist that transforms this salad into a satisfying appetizer or light meal. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this recipe is ideal for hot summer days or whenever you crave a healthy, low-calorie side dish bursting with umami goodness.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Japanese cucumbers (or English cucumbers)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 4 tablespoons Rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon Optional wakame (dried seaweed)
- 100 grams Optional crab sticks or cooked shrimp (for protein addition)
Instructions
Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for slices that are about 1/8-inch thick.
Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle them with the salt. Toss to combine and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
If using wakame, rehydrate it by soaking in warm water for 5-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce until the sugar is completely dissolved.
After 10 minutes, rinse the cucumber slices under cold water to remove the salt, then gently squeeze them to remove any excess liquid. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, dressing, sesame seeds, and wakame, if using. Toss until evenly coated.
If desired, add crab sticks or cooked shrimp for additional protein, and gently mix them into the salad.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of additional sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
210 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.7 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1138 mg | 49% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 34.5 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.6 g | ||
| Protein | 14.4 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 60 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 133 mg | 3% | |
*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.
