Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

Introduction

Sunomono, a refreshing Japanese cucumber salad, is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. With its crisp texture and light seasoning, this salad is an excellent side dish for sushi, grilled meats, or even a simple bowl of rice. Best of all, it takes just minutes to prepare!

This traditional Japanese dish is made with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, a touch of sugar, and toasted sesame seeds. The result? A crunchy, slightly sweet, and tangy salad that perfectly complements any meal. If you love light and fresh salads, be sure to check out my Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese or this flavorful Tomato Feta Salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Takes less than 10 minutes to make, making it a go-to side dish for any meal.
• Healthy & Light – Low in calories, packed with hydration, and full of antioxidants.
• Pairs Well with Everything – Whether you’re serving sushi, grilled meats, or rice dishes, Sunomono complements any meal beautifully.

Taste & Texture

• Crisp, cool cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch.
• Rice vinegar adds a tangy zing, while sugar balances it with a hint of sweetness.
• Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty depth that makes every bite irresistible.

Dietary Attributes

• Naturally vegan and gluten-free
• Low-calorie and keto-friendly
• Dairy-free and nut-free, making it great for various dietary needs

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 medium cucumbers, or 1 large English cucumber
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Notes on Quality

• Cucumbers: Use Japanese or English cucumbers for a milder taste and thinner skin. If using regular cucumbers, peel and remove seeds for the best texture.
• Rice Vinegar: Mild and slightly sweet, rice vinegar is the key to the authentic flavor. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute, but the taste will be stronger.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasting them enhances their nutty flavor. Simply heat them in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap sugar with honey or a sugar alternative for a low-carb version.
• Add a splash of soy sauce for a bit of umami depth.
• Toss in thinly sliced seaweed or carrots for extra texture and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Cucumbers: Peel cucumbers to leave alternating green stripes. Slice them in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds. Slice them very thinly with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. Place them in a double layer of paper towels and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture.
• Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves.

• Combine Everything: Add the sliced cucumbers and toasted sesame seeds to the dressing. Toss well to coat evenly.
• Serve & Enjoy: Sunomono is best enjoyed fresh, but you can chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use a Mandoline: This ensures super-thin, even slices for the best texture.
• Toast the Sesame Seeds: This small step enhances the nuttiness and elevates the flavor of the salad.
• Let It Marinate: Although it can be eaten immediately, letting the salad sit for 10-15 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the Moisture Removal: Cucumbers hold a lot of water, and skipping this step can result in a watery salad. Always squeeze out excess moisture.
• Using Too Much Vinegar: Sunomono should be balanced in flavor, not overly acidic. Stick to the measurements for the best results.

Time-Saving Tips

• Make It Ahead: The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Pre-Slice Cucumbers: If you’re short on time, pre-sliced cucumbers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

Sunomono pairs beautifully with:

• Sushi and sashimi – A perfect balance of fresh flavors
• Grilled fish or chicken – The acidity cuts through rich proteins
• Steamed rice and miso soup – A simple yet satisfying meal

Presentation Ideas

• Serve in a small, shallow dish with a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds on top.
• Garnish with thinly sliced scallions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.

Beverage Pairings

• Green tea – A classic, refreshing pairing
• Cold sake – Complements the delicate flavors beautifully
• Light white wine – Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Avoid freezing, as cucumbers lose their texture when thawed.

Reheating Methods

• No need to reheat! Just serve chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I make this without sugar?
Yes! Substitute with a sugar-free alternative like stevia or simply omit it for a tangier flavor.

Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Try adding shredded carrots, thinly sliced radishes, or a bit of wakame seaweed for a more complex salad.

Troubleshooting

My salad is too watery!
Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the cucumbers before mixing.

It tastes too sour. What should I do?
Balance it with a bit more sugar or a pinch of salt to mellow the acidity.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Keto-Friendly: Use a sugar substitute or skip the sugar altogether.
• Soy-Free Option: Keep it as is or add coconut aminos for extra flavor.

Flavor Twists

• Spicy Sunomono: Add a drizzle of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Garlic & Ginger Version: Mix in a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger or minced garlic for extra depth.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• In summer, add thinly sliced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
• During the holidays, sprinkle in pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.

Conclusion

Sunomono is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a refreshing balance to any meal. Its crisp texture, tangy-sweet taste, and quick preparation make it a must-try for anyone who loves light and healthy dishes. Whether you’re making sushi at home or need an easy side dish, this Japanese cucumber salad will become a new favorite!

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese or Tomato Feta Salad. And don’t forget to check out more delicious recipes on my Pinterest board!

Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe—I’d love to hear what you think!

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