Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono) (VIDEO)

Name: Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 lb Japanese cucumber (2-3 cucumbers); 1/2 tbsp kosher salt; 3 tbsp rice vinegar; 1/2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp light soy sauce; 1 tsp sesame seeds

Jack

Update : November 18, 2025

Delicious Japanese cucumber salad (Sunomono) served in a bowl

Japanese Cucumber Salad, also known as Sunomono, is a light, refreshing dish that brings a crisp taste to any meal. It combines the cool crunch of cucumbers with a savory-sweet dressing. This salad is a favorite in Japanese cuisine and is often served as a side dish in meals. It is very easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. If you want to add a touch of Japan to your dinner table, this recipe is perfect for you.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Japanese Cucumber Salad at home is a wonderful idea for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. The ingredients are simple and can be found in any grocery store, making it accessible for anyone.

Second, this salad is healthy! Cucumbers are low in calories and contain a lot of water, which makes them great for hydration. Additionally, the dressing, made with rice vinegar and soy sauce, adds flavor without being heavy.

Third, Japanese Cucumber Salad is very versatile. It can accompany a variety of dishes, such as sushi, grilled meats, or fried rice. This salad is perfect for summer barbecues or as a light refreshing dish during any season.

Finally, it is a delightful way to introduce your family and friends to Japanese flavors. The crisp cucumbers and the sweet-tangy dressing will surely impress your guests and become a favorite in your home.

How to Make Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Creating your own Japanese Cucumber Salad is simple and takes just a few minutes. Following this guide will make the process effortless. Let’s dive into the detailed steps and ingredients needed to make this wonderful dish.

Ingredients:

1 lb Japanese cucumber (2-3 cucumbers)
1/2 tbsp kosher salt
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tsp sesame seeds

Directions:

Prepare the Cucumbers: Take the Japanese cucumbers and wash them under cold water. Using a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer, thinly slice the cucumbers. Aim to cut them into pieces that are about 2-3 cm thick. Thin slices will absorb the dressing better and create a more delicious bite.
Salting the Cucumbers: Place the cucumber slices into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of kosher salt over the cucumbers. Mix them gently to ensure all the pieces are coated. Let the cucumbers rest for around 5 minutes. This process, known as salting, helps to draw out excess water, making the cucumbers crunchier.
Rinse and Dry: After 5 minutes, you will notice that some water has come out of the cucumbers. Carefully remove the excess water from the bowl. Then, rinse the cucumbers under cold water to wash off the salt. Use your hands to squeeze the cucumbers gently to remove excess water. This step is important to ensure your salad is not too salty.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is fully dissolved. The dressing should have a good balance of sweetness and tang.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the prepared cucumbers. Add the 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds into the bowl as well. Mix everything together gently until the cucumbers are thoroughly coated in the dressing.
Serve: Your Japanese Cucumber Salad is now ready to serve! It is best enjoyed immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.

How to Serve Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Servicing your Japanese Cucumber Salad can be a fun experience. You can present it in various ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some suggestions for serving this delicious salad:

Traditional Style: Serve the salad chilled in a small bowl. You might want to garnish it with a few more sesame seeds or even some thinly sliced scallions for an added touch.
As a Side Dish: Pair this salad with your favorite grilled meats, sushi rolls, or rice dishes. It will add a refreshing contrast to richer flavors.
In a Bento Box: For a Japanese-inspired meal, pack the salad into a bento box. It will be a perfect colorful addition alongside rice, protein, and other sides.
Garnishes and Toppings: Consider adding some sliced radishes, shredded carrots, or chopped herbs like cilantro for additional flavor and presentation.

How to Store Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

To keep your Japanese Cucumber Salad fresh, follow these storage tips:

In the Refrigerator: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten the same day, but it can last for up to 2 days.
Avoid Over-saturation: The longer the salad sits, the more water the cucumbers will release. If you see excess liquid forming in the container, you can drain that off before serving again.
Do Not Freeze: It is not recommended to freeze the salad. Cucumbers do not freeze well, as they will lose their crunch and become mushy when thawed.

Tips to Make Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your Japanese Cucumber Salad experience:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh, crispy cucumbers for the best flavor and texture. Japanese cucumbers are preferred as they tend to be sweeter and have thinner skin than regular cucumbers.
Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to modify the dressing according to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. If you enjoy tanginess, increase the rice vinegar a little.
Let it Marinate: For more flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This lets the cucumbers soak in the dressing, enhancing the taste.
Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding some other ingredients, such as sliced chili peppers for heat or seaweed for an umami boost.

Variation (if any)

While the original recipe is delicious, there are several variations you can explore:

Add Protein: For a heartier dish, you can include cooked shrimp or crab meat in the salad. Just mix it in with the cucumbers before adding the dressing.
Add Other Vegetables: You can mix in julienned carrots or radish slices to give it additional flavor and color.
Noodle Salad: Try serving the salad over chilled soba noodles for a refreshing, complete meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Japanese cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. However, the taste and texture may differ. Japanese cucumbers are crunchier and sweeter.

2. How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
The salad is best eaten immediately but can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it is better to mix the dressing and combine everything just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.

4. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as all the ingredients are plant-based.

5. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of vinegar like apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but the taste will vary from the original recipe.

With its fresh taste and easy preparation, you will surely love making and serving this Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono) at home! Enjoy your delicious culinary adventure!