This cucumber kimchi is SOOO refreshing!!

This cucumber kimchi is SOOO refreshing!! is a easy Korean recipe that serves 4. 50 calories per serving. Recipe by Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie on YouTube.

Prep: 31 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 41 min

Cost: $3.97 total, $0.99 per serving

Ingredients

  • 7 cucumbers Persian Cucumbers (Thin‑skinned, sliced into 1/4‑inch coins)
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt
  • 1 tablespoon Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes, coarse)
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar (Seasoned rice vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Toasted sesame oil)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (Minced fine)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Toasted)

Instructions

  1. Slice Cucumbers

    Place the Persian cucumbers on a cutting board and slice them into 1/4‑inch thick coins.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Salt the Cucumbers

    Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a large bowl, add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, and toss until all pieces are lightly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Rest to Draw Moisture

    Let the salted cucumbers sit for 15 minutes, uncovered or loosely covered, to release water.

    Time: PT15M

  4. Rinse and Dry

    Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water in a colander, then pat dry with paper towels.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Prepare the Marinade

    In a clean mixing bowl combine 1 tablespoon gochugaru, 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, the minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is uniform.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Combine Cucumbers and Marinade

    Add the rinsed cucumbers to the bowl of dressing and toss gently until every slice is evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Chill (Optional)

    Refrigerate the salad for 5 minutes before serving for a cooler, crisper bite.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
50
Protein
1 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
3 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb

Allergens: Sesame

Last updated: April 14, 2026

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This cucumber kimchi is SOOO refreshing!!

Recipe by Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie

A quick, crunchy Korean‑style cucumber salad made with thin‑sliced Persian cucumbers, salty brine, gochugaru, sesame oil, garlic and toasted sesame seeds. Perfect as a refreshing side or light appetizer.

EasyKoreanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
36m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.97
Total cost
$0.99
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Salting cucumbers and allowing them to rest to draw out excess moisture.
  • Rinsing and thoroughly drying the cucumbers to remove excess salt.
  • Ensuring the marinade is well mixed and the cucumbers are fully coated.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully to avoid cuts while slicing cucumbers.
  • Handle minced garlic with care; avoid contact with eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad in Korean cuisine?

A

Cucumber salads like Oi Muchim have been a staple in Korean household meals for centuries, offering a refreshing, crunchy counterpoint to heavier dishes. The use of gochugaru, sesame oil, and sesame seeds reflects classic Korean flavor pillars of heat, nuttiness, and acidity.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber salads in Korean cuisine?

A

In the southern regions, cucumbers are often pickled longer with more garlic, while northern styles may use a milder vinegar and less chili. Some versions add fish sauce for umami, whereas vegetarian versions rely solely on sesame and garlic.

cultural
Q

How is Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad traditionally served in Korean households?

A

It is typically served as a banchan (small side dish) alongside rice and main courses like grilled meat or stew. The salad is presented in a small bowl at the table and eaten with a spoon or chopsticks.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad traditionally associated in Korean culture?

A

Cucumber banchan appears year‑round but is especially common during summer gatherings and holiday feasts such as Chuseok, where its crispness balances richer dishes.

cultural
Q

What other Korean dishes pair well with Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with Korean BBQ (bulgogi, galbi), bibimbap, kimchi stew, and steamed rice. The bright acidity also complements fried foods like pajeon (green onion pancake).

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include gochugaru, toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and sesame seeds. Substitutes can be paprika with cayenne for gochugaru, apple cider vinegar for rice wine vinegar, and peanut oil for sesame oil, though flavor will differ.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad?

A

Common errors include under‑salting the cucumbers (resulting in a soggy salad), not rinsing enough after the brine (making it too salty), and over‑mixing the dressing which can break down the cucumber texture.

technical
Q

Why does this Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad recipe use a resting salt step instead of directly adding the dressing?

A

Salting first draws out excess water, concentrating the cucumber’s flavor and preventing the final salad from becoming watery. This step ensures the dressing clings to the cucumber pieces for a more intense taste.

technical
Q

Can I make Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the salad can be prepared up to a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; the flavors will meld and the cucumbers stay crisp if kept dry. Give it a quick toss before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad?

A

The cucumbers should be bright green, slightly translucent from the brine, and retain a firm crunch. The dressing should coat each slice lightly, giving a speckled look from the red gochugaru and toasted sesame seeds.

technical
Q

How do I know when Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad is done cooking?

A

Since there is no cooking, the salad is finished once the cucumbers have rested, been rinsed, and are fully coated with the seasoned dressing. A brief chill enhances the flavor but is optional.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie specializes in approachable Asian-inspired home cooking, blending traditional techniques with modern twists and clear, step‑by‑step video tutorials.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie's approach to Korean cooking differ from other Korean cooking channels?

A

Alissa Nguyen focuses on quick, ingredient‑light recipes that use readily available grocery items, emphasizing flavor balance over strict authenticity, whereas many Korean channels prioritize traditional methods and specialty ingredients.

channel
Q

What other Korean recipes is the YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie known for?

A

The channel is known for recipes such as Korean Beef Bulgogi, Kimchi Fried Rice, and easy Gochujang‑glazed chicken, all presented with clear visuals and home‑cook friendly tips.

channel

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