17 Japanese Cucumber Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
In addition to being a staple in Japanese cuisine, cucumbers are a versatile and refreshing ingredient that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. From salads and soups to sushi and pickles, the Japanese have perfected the art of using cucumbers in their cooking. But one recipe that truly stands out is the Japanese cucumber salad, also known as "Sunomono". This light and flavorful dish is perfect for hot summer days or as a side to a hearty meal. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can elevate your cucumber game and impress your taste buds.
Japanese cucumber salad, also known as sunomono, is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. The crisp texture of the cucumbers combined with the tangy and slightly sweet dressing makes for a delicious and healthy addition to your menu. It's a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often served as a palate cleanser between dishes. But it's also a great standalone dish that can be enjoyed on its own. Here are 20 variations of this classic salad that will take your taste buds on a journey through Japan.
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Grilled Miso-Glazed Sea Bass with Japanese Cucumber...
Main Ingredients: Sea Bass Fillets, Glaze, Hothouse Cucumber, Daikon
This is a perfect example of how a simple cucumber salad can elevate a dish to the next level. The combination of the smoky and savory grilled sea bass with the bright and refreshing cucumber salad is a match made in heaven. The miso glaze adds a depth of flavor, and the sesame seeds give a nice crunch to the dish. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
If you're looking for a classic and authentic Japanese cucumber salad, this is the recipe for you. It's made with just a few simple ingredients, including rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and of course, cucumbers. The key to the perfect sunomono is to slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible, allowing them to soak up the dressing and become tender. Serve this salad as a side dish or as a topping for your sushi rolls.
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Japanese cucumber salad (Cucumber Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: Cucumber, Wakame, Salt, Rice Vinegar, Mirin, Soy Sauce
Similar to the previous recipe, this cucumber sunomono is a traditional Japanese dish that is loved for its simplicity and refreshing taste. It's perfect for those hot summer days when you want something light and cooling. The combination of cucumbers, rice vinegar, and soy sauce makes for a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that pairs well with any meal.
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Sunomono Salad (Japanese Cucumber Salad)
Main Ingredients: Japanese Cucumbers, Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Salt, Soy
This sunomono salad is a twist on the traditional version, as it includes thinly sliced carrots and daikon radish. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make for a visually appealing dish, and the crunch of the carrots adds a nice texture to the salad. The dressing is a mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and lemon juice, giving it a bright and tangy flavor.
For a little kick of spice, try this Japanese cucumber salad with a spicy sesame dressing. The dressing is made with soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil, and a touch of sugar for balance. It's a flavorful and zesty twist on the classic sunomono that is sure to wake up your taste buds. This salad is best enjoyed as a side dish or as a topping for your favorite sushi rolls.
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Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)
Main Ingredients: Japanese Cucumber, Salt, Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Soy Sauce
If you're a fan of seafood, you'll love this version of sunomono that includes crab meat. The sweet and juicy crab meat pairs well with the tangy and refreshing cucumber salad. It's a great way to add some protein to your meal and makes for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner option. Serve it on a bed of greens for a more substantial dish.
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Sunomono Japanese Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: Rice Vinegar, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Persian Cucumbers
This sunomono Japanese cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for any Asian-inspired meal. The dressing is a combination of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, giving it a classic and authentic flavor. The addition of thinly sliced red onions and sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness to the salad. It's a versatile dish that can be served with grilled meats, sushi, or as a topping for your favorite rice bowl.
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Japanese Salmon Bowl
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Wine Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Chilli Sauce
This Japanese salmon bowl is a delicious and healthy one-bowl meal that is packed with flavor and nutrients. The star of the dish is the marinated salmon, which is cooked to perfection and served on a bed of rice with a side of Japanese cucumber salad. The combination of the tender salmon, fluffy rice, and tangy cucumber salad makes for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
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Japanese Fried Chicken (Chicken Karaage) Bento
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken, Ginger Juice, Mizkan Bonito Flavored
For a more substantial meal, try this Japanese fried chicken bento box that includes a side of Japanese cucumber salad. The chicken is marinated in a soy ginger sauce and then coated in a light and crispy batter before being fried to perfection. The cucumber salad adds a refreshing and light element to the meal, making it a well-rounded and flavorful lunch option.
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Japanese Salmon Avocado Rice Bowls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Avocado, Smoked Salmon, Cucumbers, Nori Seaweed
Avocado lovers, this one's for you. These Japanese salmon avocado rice bowls are a delicious and healthy meal option that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The salmon is marinated in a soy ginger sauce and then broiled to perfection, while the avocado adds a creamy and rich element to the dish. Serve it on top of a bed of rice with a side of Japanese cucumber salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Sushi Burrito
Main Ingredients: Japanese Rice Vinegar, Medium Grain Rice, Japanese
If you're a fan of sushi, you'll love this fusion dish that combines the flavors of a sushi roll with the convenience of a burrito. This sushi burrito is filled with your choice of protein, vegetables, and of course, Japanese cucumber salad. It's a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite sushi flavors on the go.
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Sushi Rolls
Main Ingredients: Sushi Rice, Water, Salt, Rice Vinegar, Maple Syrup
Speaking of sushi, why not make your own at home? These homemade sushi rolls are easier to make than you might think and are a great way to get creative with your fillings. Whether you prefer classic California rolls or want to experiment with different combinations, don't forget to add a side of Japanese cucumber salad to complete your sushi experience.
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Japanese Fried Chicken Bento
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken, Ginger Juice, Base, Mirin
Another bento box option, this Japanese fried chicken meal is perfect for those who love a little heat. The chicken is marinated in a spicy sauce and then coated in a crispy batter before being fried to perfection. The cucumber salad adds a cooling and refreshing element to the meal, making it a well-balanced and delicious lunch option.
For a twist on the classic cucumber salad, try this Japanese spinach salad. The combination of blanched spinach, cucumbers, and a sesame dressing makes for a tasty and healthy side dish. The spinach adds a nice dose of nutrients, and the sesame dressing gives it a delicious and savory flavor.
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Creamy Japanese Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Cucumber, Carrot, Hard Boiled Eggs, Kewpie
This creamy Japanese potato salad is a must-try for potato lovers. The addition of Japanese mayonnaise and rice vinegar gives it a unique and tangy flavor, while the cucumbers add a refreshing and crunchy element. It's a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light and satisfying lunch.
If you're looking for a lighter and healthier version of potato salad, this Japanese potato salad is the answer. It's made with a mix of potatoes, carrots, and cucumbers, and the dressing is a combination of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's a great option for those who want to cut back on mayonnaise but still crave that creamy potato salad flavor.
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Japanese Rainbow Roll
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Tuna, Avocado, Imitation Crab Meat, Cucumber
This Japanese rainbow roll is a beautiful and tasty sushi roll that is sure to impress your guests. The roll is filled with a rainbow of colorful vegetables, including avocado, cucumber, and carrot, and is topped with a layer of fresh salmon sashimi. Don't forget to serve it with a side of Japanese cucumber salad for a complete and well-balanced meal.
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Somen (Japanese Cold Noodles)
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Ice Cubes, Dashi Stock, Soy Sauce, Mirin
In the warmer months, there's nothing more refreshing than a bowl of cold somen noodles. These thin wheat noodles are served cold with a light and tangy sauce and a variety of toppings, including cucumbers, green onions, and boiled eggs. It's a popular dish in Japan and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner on a hot day.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunimono)
Main Ingredients: Rice Vinegar, Salt, White Sugar, Persian Cucumbers
This version of Japanese cucumber salad is made with a sunimono dressing, which is a mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and dashi. The dashi adds a savory and umami flavor to the dish, and the cucumbers soak it up to create a delicious and refreshing salad. This salad is a great option for those looking to switch up their traditional sunomono recipe.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Japanese cucumber salad, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Japanese Cucumbers
These cucumbers are shorter and thinner than the regular ones, with a crispier texture and fewer seeds. They are perfect for this salad as they hold their shape and crunchiness even after being marinated.
2. Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar is a staple in Japanese cooking and adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad. Make sure to use the unseasoned variety for a more authentic taste.
3. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is another essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine, and it adds a savory umami taste to the salad. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, or you can also substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option.
4. Sugar
A touch of sugar balances out the flavors and adds a hint of sweetness to the salad. You can use regular granulated sugar or replace it with honey or agave for a healthier alternative.
5. Sesame Oil
Sesame oil has a strong nutty flavor that adds depth and richness to the salad. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
6. Sesame Seeds
Toasted sesame seeds are the perfect garnish for this salad, adding a delightful crunch and nuttiness to each bite.
Optional: You can also add thinly sliced red onions, carrots, or seaweed to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Instructions
1. Begin by washing and drying the Japanese cucumbers. Cut off the ends and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Add the sliced cucumbers to the marinade and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for the flavors to develop.
4. When ready to serve, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and add any optional ingredients if desired.
5. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a topping for sushi rolls.
With its light and tangy flavors, this Japanese cucumber salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be made in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck parties. So why not give it a try and add a touch of Japanese flair to your next meal?
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