Japanese Cucumber Sunomono: A Refreshing Japanese Cucumber Salad
Japanese Cucumber Salad, also known as cucumber sunomono, is a delightful dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. Made with crisp cucumber, the salad is perfect as a Japanese appetizer or as a refreshing salad or side dish. This dish is ideal for summer BBQs, providing a cool and tangy twist to your meal lineup.
Yield: 4 Servings
Prep Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
To create this easy Japanese cucumber sunomono, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons white sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced fresh ginger root
- 5 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, or to taste
Instructions for Preparing
Follow these easy steps to prepare the Japanese Cucumber Sunomono:
- Firstly, slice the cucumbers very thinly and place them into a bowl.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and toss to coat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften the cucumbers.
- Next, rinse the cucumbers under cold water and gently squeeze out excess water. Move them to a clean bowl.
- Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix white sugar, minced ginger, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour this mixture over the cucumbers, tossing well to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finally, before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Japanese Salad
This Japanese Cucumber Sunomono is not only tasty but also healthy. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, which makes them great for hydration and a low-calorie diet. Fresh ginger adds a unique flavor while offering anti-inflammatory properties. Rice vinegar provides a gentle tang, contributing to low calorie intake.
Optional Healthier Cooking Tips
For a healthier version of the Japanese Cucumber Salad, consider using a reduced-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium. Additionally, toasting the sesame seeds can enhance the nutty flavor without any added oils, making this dish even more health-conscious without losing any of its charm.
Conclusion: Experience the Freshness of Japanese Cucumber Salad
In conclusion, this easy Japanese Cucumber Salad, or cucumber sunomono, is a must-try for any meal plan. Its quick prep time and refreshing taste make it perfect for summer gatherings or as a light dish accompanying everyday meals. Therefore, enjoy this delightful Japanese cucumber salad and experience a burst of unique flavors in every crunchy bite!
