10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) is a delightful dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. This quick salad is perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a vibrant side dish for your main course. Its simplicity, vibrant colors, and tangy flavor make it a standout choice for gatherings or daily meals. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create this Japanese favorite in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of rice vinegar and sugar creates a delightful balance of tangy and sweet that enhances the fresh cucumber.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, this salad pairs well with many dishes.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and rich in vitamins, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect 10 Minute Sunomono, you’ll need a few essential tools that will simplify your prep process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: This tool ensures consistent thin slices of cucumber, which enhances both texture and presentation.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps dissolve the sugar quickly into the dressing, ensuring an even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

Sunomono salad is a refreshing Japanese cucumber salad with crisp, thin slices of cucumber tossed in a tangy Japanese dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce & sugar.

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

Use a mandoline to thinly slice the cucumbers. Toss the sliced cucumbers with sea salt and let them stand until moisture is drawn out, about 3 to 6 minutes. Depending on thickness, you may need to adjust standing time. Squeeze out excess moisture after standing. Taste and rinse if it’s too salty; otherwise, leave as is.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the rice apple vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds. Whisk together until the sugar completely dissolves.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Toss the prepared cucumbers with the dressing in your serving dish. Serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill briefly before serving. Enjoy this delightful salad!

How to Serve 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

10 Minute Sunomono is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Its refreshing taste makes it perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful salad.

As a Light Appetizer

• A small portion of Sunomono can serve as a refreshing start to your meal. Its crisp texture and tangy flavor will awaken your taste buds.

Paired with Grilled Meats

• This salad works wonderfully alongside grilled chicken or beef. The coolness of the cucumbers balances the smoky flavors of the meat.

On a Sushi Platter

• Include Sunomono in your sushi spread. Its vibrant colors and flavors enhance the overall presentation and taste of the platter.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Add this salad to your bento box for a refreshing side. It pairs well with rice, vegetables, and proteins, making a balanced meal.

With Asian Noodle Dishes

• Serve Sunomono alongside Asian noodle dishes like soba or udon. The crisp cucumbers add texture and contrast.

How to Perfect 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

To achieve the best results with your 10 Minute Sunomono, consider these helpful tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose fresh cucumbers: Use firm, fresh Japanese cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.
• Adjust salt levels: Taste the salted cucumbers before rinsing; adjust according to personal preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for a short time can enhance its refreshing quality.
• Experiment with textures: Try adding sliced radishes or carrots for added crunch and color.
• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the salad earlier in the day; just keep it in an airtight container until serving.
• Garnish creatively: Top with additional sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.

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

10 Minute Sunomono pairs beautifully with various side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in soy sauce complement the crispness of the salad.
2. Teriyaki Beef: Tender beef glazed with teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory element that pairs well.
3. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried vegetables provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cucumbers.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and warmth, balancing out the coolness of Sunomono.
5. Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans offer a healthy side that’s simple to prepare.
6. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with vegetables rounds out your meal while providing satisfying carbs.
7. Soba Noodles: Chilled soba noodles dressed in soy sauce make for a light yet filling addition.
8. Seaweed Salad: The umami flavors of seaweed salad pair nicely with cucumber’s freshness, creating harmony on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Over-salting the cucumbers: Adding too much salt can make the salad overly salty. Use just 1 teaspoon of sea salt and adjust according to taste after squeezing out the moisture.

• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt is crucial for drawing out moisture. Don’t rush this step; let them rest for 3 to 6 minutes for the best texture.

• Not tasting the dressing: The balance of flavors in your dressing is key. Always taste it before mixing with the cucumbers and adjust the sweetness or acidity as necessary.

• Using thick cucumber slices: Thin slices are essential for achieving that perfect crunch. A mandoline slicer helps to get uniform, thin pieces for an authentic experience.

• Serving without chilling: While you can serve immediately, letting it chill enhances the flavors. If you have time, refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Consume within this time frame for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

• It’s not recommended to freeze sunomono as cucumbers lose their crispness when thawed.
• For best quality, always consume fresh.

Reheating 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

• Oven: Not applicable; sunomono is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; it alters the texture and flavor.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; serve fresh instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding 10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad):

What is sunomono?

Sunomono is a Japanese cucumber salad known for its refreshing taste and light dressing made primarily of rice vinegar and soy sauce.

How do I customize my sunomono?

You can add other vegetables like carrots or daikon radish, or even include seafood like shrimp if desired, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Japanese cucumbers?

While Japanese cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and crunch, regular cucumbers can be used; just ensure they are sliced thinly.

How long does 10 Minute Sunomono last in the fridge?

This salad lasts up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it fresh for best results!

Final Thoughts

10 Minute Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) is a delightful dish that brings freshness to any meal. Its quick preparation makes it perfect as a side dish or a light snack. Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or toppings based on your preferences!