Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad: Enjoy a Crunchy Delight!

Name: Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad: Enjoy a Crunchy Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, sliced; 1 cup kimchi, chopped; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped

Chef Hicham4 weeks ago

0 2 16 minutes read

Jump to Recipe

How to Make Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad

Now that you’re all set with the ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad! I promise, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say salad?). With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant dish ready to impress your family or friends. Let’s get started!

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

First things first, let’s wash those cucumbers! I like to give them a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, slice them into thin rounds. You want them to be crisp and refreshing, so don’t go too thick! While you’re at it, chop up your kimchi. If you’re like me and love a little extra kick, feel free to add more kimchi than the recipe calls for. It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance!

Step 2 – Begin Mixing

Here’s where the magic happens—no cooking required! Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your sliced cucumbers and chopped kimchi. The colors alone will make you smile. It’s like a little party in a bowl! Now, let’s whip up that dressing.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili flakes. This dressing is where the flavor really shines. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist! Once it’s all mixed, pour it over the cucumber and kimchi mixture. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there (or use a spoon) and toss everything together until it’s well coated. You want every cucumber slice to be dressed in that deliciousness!

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

To give your salad that final touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Not only does this add a lovely crunch, but it also makes the salad look oh-so-pretty! You can serve it immediately, but if you have a little patience, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

And there you have it! Your Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad is ready to be devoured. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or a side dish, I guarantee it’ll be a hit. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing. Who knew healthy could taste this good?

Introduction to Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad

Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch! Today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to recipe for Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad. This delightful dish is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that will brighten up your meal in no time. Imagine biting into crisp cucumbers paired with the tangy zing of kimchi—it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!

Now, I know how busy life can get, especially for us women juggling work, family, and everything in between. That’s why this salad is a lifesaver! With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a dish that’s not only quick but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss!

What I love most about this Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, it fits seamlessly into any meal. And let’s not forget the vibrant colors! The bright green cucumbers and the fiery red kimchi make for a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress.

So, if you’re ready to add a little zing to your dining table, let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad

Let’s talk about why this Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad is going to become your new favorite dish! First off, it’s all about that quick prep time. In just 15 minutes, you can have a vibrant, crunchy salad ready to go. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that comes together faster than you can say “what’s for dinner?”

As a busy woman myself, I totally get the struggle of juggling a million things at once. Between work, family, and those never-ending to-do lists, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This salad is a lifesaver! With minimal cleanup—just a cutting board, a bowl, and a whisk—you can whip it up and get back to your day in no time.

Now, let’s chat about flavors. This salad is not just quick; it’s also family-friendly! The crispness of the cucumbers paired with the tangy, spicy kick of kimchi creates a delightful balance that even picky eaters can appreciate. I’ve served this salad to my family countless times, and it’s always a hit. The kids love the crunch, and I love that they’re getting their veggies in without any fuss!

But wait, there’s more! This Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a light meal on a hot summer day or a zesty side dish to complement your grilled chicken, this salad fits the bill perfectly. It pairs beautifully with a variety of cuisines, from Asian-inspired dishes to classic American fare. You can even enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack!

And let’s not forget about the health benefits. With fresh ingredients like cucumbers and kimchi, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re also nourishing your body. It’s a win-win situation! So, if you’re ready to add a burst of flavor and crunch to your meals, this salad is calling your name. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the kitchen, let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 large cucumbers, sliced
1 cup kimchi, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped

Now, let’s break down the role of each ingredient, shall we? First up, the cucumbers. These beauties are the stars of our salad, providing that refreshing crunch we all crave. They’re like the cool breeze on a hot summer day—absolutely essential!

Next, we have kimchi. This fermented wonder is not just packed with flavor; it’s also loaded with probiotics, which are great for gut health. If you’re not a fan of kimchi, you can swap it out for pickled vegetables or even a tangy slaw. Just keep in mind that you’ll miss out on that unique kick that kimchi brings!

Now, let’s talk about the dressing. Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil instead. Rice vinegar brings a lovely tanginess to the mix, but if you don’t have any on hand, apple cider vinegar works just as well. It’s a great healthy swap that adds a different layer of flavor!

As for the soy sauce, it adds that umami punch we all love. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce or even tamari for a gluten-free option. The chili flakes are where you can really customize the heat level. If you’re cooking for the kiddos or anyone who prefers milder flavors, just dial it back or leave it out entirely.

Finally, we have sesame seeds and green onions. These are the finishing touches that add a delightful crunch and a pop of color. Plus, they make your salad look oh-so-pretty! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even toss in some chopped cilantro or mint for an extra burst of freshness.

And don’t worry, if you’re looking for printable measurements, I’ve got you covered! You can find them at the end of this article, so you can whip up this Spicy Cucumber & Kimchi Salad with ease. Now, let’s get cooking!