10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) is a delightful dish that brings a refreshing burst of flavor to your table. This salad is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a light side dish during weeknight dinners. The unique combination of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar creates a tangy dressing that pairs beautifully with the crisp, thin slices of cucumber. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes needed, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time.
• Refreshing Taste: The tangy dressing enhances the fresh cucumbers, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Side Dish: It complements various main courses, from grilled chicken to hearty rice dishes.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and high in nutrients, this salad fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) even easier. Below are the essential tools you will need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures perfectly thin cucumber slices for the best texture.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps dissolve sugar quickly into the dressing for an even flavor distribution.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Sunomono salad, gather the following ingredients:

For the Salad

• 1 large Japanese cucumber (see Note 1)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons rice apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Use a mandoline to thinly slice the cucumbers.
2. Toss the sliced cucumbers with sea salt.
3. Let stand for about 3 to 6 minutes until moisture is drawn out.
4. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the cucumbers.
5. Taste and rinse if it’s too salty; otherwise, leave as is.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice apple vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds.
2. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the prepared cucumbers with the dressing until evenly coated.
2. Serve immediately or chill before serving for extra refreshment. Enjoy!

How to Serve 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

Serving your 10 Minute Sunomono is as delightful as making it. This refreshing salad pairs well with various dishes and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Side Dish

• Complement your main course with this salad for a light and crisp addition.

With Grilled Chicken or Beef

• The tangy flavor of sunomono pairs perfectly with grilled meats, enhancing the overall taste of your meal.

In a Rice Bowl

• Add sunomono on top of rice for a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.

As Part of a Sushi Platter

• Include this salad alongside sushi rolls for a traditional Japanese dining experience.

Chilled Appetizer

• Serve it cold as an appetizer to refresh guests’ palates before the main course.

How to Perfect 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

To make your 10 Minute Sunomono even better, consider these simple tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures of your salad.

• Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Use firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.
• Adjust Saltiness: Taste the cucumbers after salting; rinse if they are too salty for your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding shredded carrots or daikon radish for extra color and nutrition.
• Use Quality Soy Sauce: Opt for high-quality soy sauce to deepen the umami flavor of the dressing.
• Toast Sesame Seeds: Toasting sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor, adding depth to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

Pairing delicious side dishes with your 10 Minute Sunomono can create a complete meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds a sweet-savory balance.
2. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried vegetables provide a crunchy contrast to the salad’s freshness.
3. Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are a healthy accompaniment that brings additional nutrients.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that complement the cool cucumber salad.
5. Brown Rice Sushi Rolls: Fill sushi rolls with veggies or chicken for a fun, interactive dish that pairs well with sunomono.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the tangy notes of sunomono, creating a satisfying combination.
7. Nasu Dengaku (Miso Glazed Eggplant): Grilled eggplant topped with miso glaze provides rich flavors that work well together.

Enjoy crafting your perfect meal featuring this delightful Japanese cucumber salad!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad), it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your salad.

• Over-salting the cucumbers: Using too much sea salt can lead to an overly salty dish. To avoid this, start with a small amount of salt and adjust according to taste after squeezing out excess moisture.
• Not letting cucumbers rest: Skipping the resting time prevents the moisture from being drawn out, resulting in a soggy salad. Allow the cucumbers to sit for at least 3 minutes before proceeding.
• Skipping the whisking step: Failing to properly whisk the dressing can leave undissolved sugar granules. Always whisk until fully combined to ensure a smooth dressing.
• Using regular vinegar instead of rice apple vinegar: Substituting with regular vinegar can alter the intended flavor profile. Make sure to use rice apple vinegar for authenticity and the best taste.
• Serving immediately without chilling: While it’s tempting to serve right away, giving the salad a few minutes in the fridge enhances its flavors. Allow it to chill before serving for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad will keep well for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

• It is not recommended to freeze sunomono salad as cucumbers lose their crispness when thawed.

Reheating 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

• Oven: Not suitable for this dish as it is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; this will change the texture of the cucumbers.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; sunomono is typically served fresh and chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad).

What is 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)?

10 Minute Sunomono is a quick and refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing of rice apple vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar.

How do I make my cucumbers less salty?

To reduce saltiness, rinse the salted cucumbers under cold water after squeezing out excess moisture. This helps balance the flavor while keeping them crisp.

Can I customize my 10 Minute Sunomono?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like carrots or radishes for extra crunch and color. Feel free to experiment with different toppings as well.

Is sunomono healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is low in calories, making it a great option for those looking for light yet flavorful side dishes that complement any meal.

How long does sunomono last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, sunomono will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Final Thoughts

10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and crunchy textures. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy days or as an accompaniment to any meal. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or adjusting the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences!

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10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that adds a delightful crunch to any meal. This quick salad features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing made from rice apple vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of sugar. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish during weeknight dinners, this salad is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of crisp cucumbers and the savory-sweet dressing creates an irresistible taste sensation. Enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or as part of a sushi platter for an authentic Japanese experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large Japanese cucumber
• 2 tablespoons rice apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Using a mandoline, thinly slice the cucumber and toss with sea salt. Let it rest for 3 to 6 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Squeeze out excess moisture from the cucumbers and rinse if desired.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together rice apple vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds until the sugar dissolves.
4. Combine the cucumbers with the dressing, tossing until evenly coated.
5. Serve immediately or chill for extra refreshment.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Raw
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 45
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 530mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added color and nutrition, consider incorporating shredded carrots or radish slices. Allowing the salad to chill enhances its flavors. Use high-quality soy sauce for the best taste.