Name: TikTok Korean Cucumber: Easy & Tasty Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 400g); 1/4 cup rice vinegar (60ml); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (15ml); 1 tablespoon sugar (12g); 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) (5g); 1 clove garlic, minced (3g); 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated (2g); 1 green onion, thinly sliced (15g); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (8g)

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TikTok Korean cucumber has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason! I remember the first time I saw a video of this vibrant salad popping up on my feed; the bright colors and the promise of a quick, refreshing side dish had me hooked. It looked so simple yet so delicious. The sound of the thinly sliced cucumbers being tossed with that tangy dressing was enough to make my mouth water. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. If you’re looking for a super easy way to brighten up your plate, this Korean cucumber salad recipe TikTok is exactly what you need. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This TikTok Korean Cucumber Salad

This salad is a total game-changer! It’s incredibly simple to whip up, even on your busiest weeknights.

Super Quick Prep: Ready in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
Incredibly Refreshing: The cool, crisp cucumbers are so satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice.
Healthy & Light: A fantastic way to add a nutritious side dish.
Easy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe: Seriously, it’s one of the easiest salads you’ll ever make.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with almost any main course.
Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors make any plate look more appetizing.
Another Easy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe: You’ll be making this viral sensation again and again!

Ingredients for Authentic Korean Cucumber Salad TikTok

Gathering these simple Korean cucumber salad ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 400g) – English or Persian cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and thinner skins.
1/4 cup rice vinegar (60ml) – This provides the essential tangy base for our dressing.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml) – For that savory umami depth that defines Korean flavors.
1 tablespoon sesame oil (15ml) – A must-have for its nutty aroma and rich taste.
1 tablespoon sugar (12g) – Balances the acidity of the vinegar and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) (5g) – This is where the gentle heat comes from; adjust to your spice preference. Gochugaru is a staple in Korean cooking.
1 clove garlic, minced (3g) – Adds a pungent kick that wakes up all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated (2g) – For a subtle warmth and zing.
1 green onion, thinly sliced (15g) – Adds a fresh, slightly oniony bite and beautiful color.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (8g) – For a final toasty crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Viral Korean Cucumber Salad

Ready to dive into this incredibly simple yet delicious salad? Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying this refreshing dish in no time. This is truly how to make TikTok Korean cucumber that everyone is raving about!

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers. Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers. Aim for about ¹⁄₈-inch thickness. If you want them extra crisp and to draw out some moisture, you can lightly salt them in a colander for about 10 minutes, then rinse and pat them thoroughly dry. This step is optional but highly recommended for that perfect crunch.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. You’ll start to smell that amazing tangy and slightly spicy aroma!
Step 3: Combine and Toss. Add your prepared, thinly sliced cucumbers and the thinly sliced green onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together using tongs or your hands until every slice of cucumber is beautifully coated in the vibrant dressing. Make sure to get all those little bits of garlic and ginger distributed evenly. This is a key part of how to make TikTok Korean cucumber taste so good.

TikTok Korean Cucumber: Easy & Tasty Salad - Tik Tok Korean Cucumber - vibrant salad being tossed in a bowl

Step 4: Marinate for Flavor. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the cucumbers to soften slightly and really soak up all those delicious flavors from the dressing. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve. Just before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top for a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal. Serve this refreshing TikTok Korean cucumber salad chilled as a perfect side dish.

Pro Tips for the Best TikTok Korean Cucumber Salad

Want to elevate your salad game? These little tricks will make your TikTok Korean cucumber salad absolutely sing. I’ve found these make all the difference!

Choose the Right Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are best. They have fewer seeds and their skins are thin enough not to need peeling, which adds to the texture and ease.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time: While it’s tempting to eat it right away, letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing, softening them slightly and melding the flavors beautifully.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, always taste your dressing! You might want a little more sweetness, a bit more tang, or an extra pinch of gochugaru for more heat.

What’s the secret to perfect Korean cucumber salad?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using the right ratio of vinegar to soy sauce, a touch of sweetness, and the subtle kick from gochugaru creates that addictive profile. For a truly perfect spicy Korean cucumber salad TikTok, don’t skip the chilling time—it lets all those flavors marry!

Can I make TikTok Korean cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! This salad is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually get better as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead side dish. For other make-ahead meal ideas, check out our salad recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean cucumber salad?

The biggest pitfall is using watery cucumbers or not letting it chill long enough. If your cucumbers are too watery, the salad will be bland. Forgetting to chill means the flavors won’t meld. Also, be careful not to over-salt if you choose to salt them beforehand; a light rinse is usually sufficient.

TikTok Korean Cucumber: Easy & Tasty Salad - Tik Tok Korean Cucumber - close-up of sliced cucumbers with dressing

Best Ways to Serve Refreshing Korean Cucumber Salad

This vibrant salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many dishes. Its crisp texture and zesty dressing make it the perfect counterpoint to richer meals.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is as a classic Korean cucumber salad side dish alongside grilled meats like bulgogi or kalbi. The cool, tangy salad cuts through the richness of the meat wonderfully. It’s also amazing with beef dishes, adding a much-needed freshness.

Don’t hesitate to serve it with rice bowls or noodle dishes, too! It adds a bright pop of flavor and texture that elevates any simple meal. Think of it as your go-to condiment for adding a burst of flavor and a healthy boost to your plate.

Nutrition Facts for TikTok Korean Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad is not only delicious but also a light and healthy addition to your meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your TikTok Korean cucumber salad. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on nutrition.gov.

How to Store and Reheat TikTok Korean Cucumber Salad

This vibrant salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it’s also a fantastic make-ahead option. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy its delightful crunch and flavor for days. If you’re planning ahead, remember that this is a great example of a salad that holds up well, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.

First, always let the salad cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, your TikTok Korean cucumber salad should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually tend to meld and deepen over time, which can be a good thing!

While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the cucumber’s texture, if you absolutely need to freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months), be aware that the cucumbers may become a bit softer upon thawing. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can enjoy it cold directly from the fridge, or if you prefer, a very brief warming in a pan with a splash of water can revive it, though chilling is usually best.

Frequently Asked Questions About TikTok Korean Cucumber Salad

What is TikTok Korean cucumber salad?

TikTok Korean cucumber salad is a simple, refreshing, and flavorful cucumber salad that gained massive popularity on the social media platform TikTok. It’s known for its vibrant dressing, crisp texture, and quick preparation time, making it a go-to side dish for many.

Can I use different types of cucumbers?

Absolutely! While English or Persian cucumbers are often recommended for their thin skins and fewer seeds, you can use other varieties. If using a cucumber with thicker skin or more seeds, like a standard slicing cucumber, you might want to peel it and scoop out the seeds before slicing to ensure the best texture.

How do I make the salad spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the dressing. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a tiny bit of Sriracha to the dressing for an extra kick. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice for this delicious Korean cucumber salad.

Is this salad vegan?

The base recipe is vegetarian. To make it a vegan Korean cucumber salad recipe, you’ll want to ensure your sugar is vegan-certified, as some sugars are processed with bone char. Otherwise, all the other ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly. For more vegan recipe inspiration, check out our vegan tag.

Variations of Korean Cucumber Salad You Can Try

This delightful TikTok Korean cucumber salad is so adaptable! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to experiment. It’s easy to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.

Spicy & Sweet Kick: For an extra punch, try adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup along with the sugar. You can also increase the gochugaru for a bolder heat, creating a truly dynamic flavor profile.
Vegan Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe: The standard recipe is already quite close to vegan! To be absolutely sure, just check that your sugar is vegan-friendly. This salad is naturally dairy-free and plant-based, making it a perfect option for everyone.
Creamy Avocado Twist: For a richer, creamier texture, gently fold in some diced avocado just before serving. It adds a lovely creaminess that complements the tangy dressing beautifully. For more avocado ideas, see our avocado tag.
Quick Pickled Version: If you prefer a more intensely vinegary flavor, omit the sugar and add an extra tablespoon of rice vinegar. You can also let it marinate for longer, turning it into a quick pickle.