Korean cucumber salad oi muchim with sliced cucumbers, onion, garlic, and spicy gochugaru dressing in a white bowl

Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) - Easy & Healthy Recipe

Korean Cucumber Salad, or Oi Muchim (오이무침), is a simple and refreshing side dish (banchan) that adds crunch, spice, and brightness to any meal.

This version is extra easy and healthy:

  • ✅ No salting step (ready in minutes!)
  • ✅ Thick 1 cm cucumber slices for satisfying crunch
  • ✅ Stevia instead of sugar for a lighter, low-calorie option

Perfect as a side dish for Korean BBQ, rice bowls, or even as a quick salad on its own.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

  • 2 cucumbers (430g), cut into thick 1 cm slices
  • ½ onion (100g), thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp fine salt (for seasoning, not salting)
  • 2 Tbsp Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • ½ tsp stevia (or adjust to taste)
  • 1.5 Tbsp vinegar
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • ½ Tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare vegetables

  • Slice cucumbers into thick 1 cm rounds for extra crunch.
  • Thinly slice onion and add both to a large mixing bowl.

2. Make the seasoning

  • Add gochugaru, stevia, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and sesame seeds.

3. Mix everything

  • Toss gently with clean hands or chopsticks until cucumbers and onions are evenly coated. After about 1 minute, the cucumbers will absorb the seasoning and turn a beautiful, vibrant red.

4. Serve fresh

  • Enjoy immediately as a refreshing side dish. Best eaten within the same day for maximum crunch.

Serving Tips

  • Serve with grilled meats, Korean stews, or rice bowls.
  • Adjust spiciness by reducing gochugaru if you prefer it milder.
  • For an even fresher bite, chill cucumbers in the fridge before mixing.

✨ Pro Tip: Skipping the salting step keeps this recipe ultra-fast and makes the cucumbers extra juicy. The 1 cm thickness ensures each bite is crisp and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Version

  • ✅ Healthier – uses stevia instead of sugar
  • ✅ Quick & easy – ready in under 5 minutes
  • ✅ Crunchy & bold – thick cucumber slices with spicy garlic flavor

If you’ve been searching for a simple, healthy Korean cucumber salad recipe, this oi muchim is the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and refreshing flavors.

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