Name: Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 3 teaspoons sugar; ¼ teaspoon sesame oil; 3 ½ cups cucumber (English, Persian, or Lebanese), sliced into half-moons; 3 spring onions (scallions), finely sliced; 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes); 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

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Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad, also known as Oi Muchim, is a quick and refreshing side dish that balances crisp cucumber slices with a tangy, slightly spicy dressing. With just a handful of ingredients and five minutes of prep, this simple salad brings bold flavors and crunch to any meal. It’s the perfect accompaniment to Korean BBQ, rice bowls, or as a light snack.

Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 5 minutes
Crisp, fresh, and flavorful
A classic Korean side dish (banchan)
Uses simple pantry staples
Adjustable spice level to taste
Naturally vegan and gluten-free (with GF soy sauce)
Low-calorie yet satisfying
Works as a snack, side, or appetizer
Great for meal prep—flavors improve as it sits
A healthy, refreshing way to enjoy cucumbers

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3 teaspoons sugar
¼ teaspoon sesame oil
3 ½ cups cucumber (English, Persian, or Lebanese), sliced into half-moons
3 spring onions (scallions), finely sliced
2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

directions

Make the dressing: In a jar or small bowl, combine rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Shake or whisk until sugar dissolves.
Slice cucumbers: Cut cucumbers into half-moon slices, about 5mm (1/5 inch) thick. Place in a large mixing bowl.
Assemble salad: Add spring onions, gochugaru, and sesame seeds to the cucumbers. Pour in the dressing.
Toss and serve: Mix everything well to coat the cucumbers evenly. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes for deeper flavor.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Milder Version: Use less gochugaru or substitute with a small pinch of regular chili flakes.
Extra Tangy: Add more vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Garlic Kick: Add 1 minced garlic clove for stronger flavor.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or cashews instead of sesame seeds.
Sweeter Salad: Increase the sugar for a more balanced sweet-spicy taste.
Soy-Free: Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos or tamari.
Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced radishes or carrots.
Herby Touch: Garnish with fresh cilantro or mint.
Meal Prep: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days; the cucumbers will soften but soak up more flavor.
Spicy Upgrade: Add a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for more depth.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will soften slightly but remain flavorful.
Freezer: Not recommended, as cucumbers lose their texture.
Reheat: Not applicable—this dish is served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of cucumbers work best?

English, Persian, or Lebanese cucumbers work best since they’re crisp and have fewer seeds.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. If making ahead, prepare up to 2 hours in advance for the best crunch.

What is gochugaru?

Gochugaru is Korean chili flakes, milder and fruitier than standard chili flakes. It’s key to authentic flavor.

Can I substitute gochugaru?

If unavailable, use a small pinch of regular chili flakes, but start with less—they’re hotter.

Is this salad spicy?

It has a mild heat, but you can adjust by reducing or increasing gochugaru.

How do I keep cucumbers from getting watery?

Salt cucumbers lightly and let them drain for 10 minutes before making the salad if you want them extra crisp.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan.

Can I add protein?

Yes, pair it with tofu, boiled egg, or grilled chicken for a light meal.

Does this need to be chilled before serving?

No, but chilling for 10–15 minutes enhances flavor.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

It’s a classic side for Korean BBQ, bibimbap, rice bowls, or grilled meats.

Conclusion

Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad is a quick, refreshing side dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Crisp cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and a touch of heat from gochugaru make it a perfect complement to rich or grilled dishes. Whether served at a Korean-inspired meal or as a light snack, this simple salad is sure to brighten any table.