Ingredients (serves 2)

2 cucumbers
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
¼ tsp salt
A little freshly grated ginger
Sesame seeds (to serve)

About rice vinegar: Rice vinegar is made from fermented rice. It has a milder, less acidic flavour than wine vinegar, with an acetic acid content of 4–5% (compared to 5–8% for wine vinegar). If you can’t find rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute.

Instructions

Peel the cucumbers and slice them into very thin rounds (use a mandoline if you have one).
Place the cucumber slices in a bowl, sprinkle with salt and leave for a few minutes to draw out the excess moisture.
Cover the cucumber slices with the rice vinegar and leave for 2 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar and grated ginger.
Pour this mixture over the cucumbers and toss to combine.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavours to develop.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving.

良い食欲！ 🥒🇯🇵

Tip: Sunomono is a perfect light side dish alongside onigiri or ramen. It keeps for up to 2 days in the fridge.

About This Recipe

Cucumber Salad – Sunomono is one of those dishes that rewards a little care and shares beautifully at the table. Below you’ll find timings, practical tips and serving ideas so you can make it with confidence, whether it is your first attempt or a familiar favourite you want to get just right.

At a Glance

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: No cooking
Total time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Very easy

Tips for the Best Results

Dress the Cucumber Salad – Sunomono just before serving so the leaves and fruit stay crisp and bright.
Balance the dressing between acidity and a touch of sweetness, tasting as you go.
Chill the components separately and combine at the last moment for the freshest result.
Toast any nuts or seeds briefly to wake up their aroma before scattering them over.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cucumber Salad – Sunomono as a refreshing starter, a light lunch, or a bright side to grilled meat or fish. It also travels well for picnics and packed lunches.

Storage

This is best enjoyed fresh. If you must keep it, store the undressed components in the fridge for up to a day and dress just before serving.