3 Easy Cucumber Salads
About this recipe
Cucumber salads are trending right now, and Chef Jack Ovens has put together three easy recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From the classic smoked salmon salad to a Korean-inspired version, these salads are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor.
Each salad features fresh cucumbers as the star ingredient, paired with complementary flavors like dill, capers, and sesame oil. Whether you're looking for a light appetizer or a refreshing side dish, these recipes are sure to impress.
Ingredient notes
- For the Cucumber Smoked Salmon Salad, you can use either a large cucumber or a smaller one, depending on your preference.
- In the Korean Cucumber Salad, if you can't find gochugaru, you can substitute it with a small pinch of ground chili flakes, but be cautious as they are spicier than gochugaru.
Tips from Chef Jack Ovens’s video
- Using a mandolin to slice the cucumber ensures even and thin rounds, which is key for the texture of the salads.
- When mixing the ingredients, focus on incorporating the cream cheese well so that it coats everything evenly in the smoked salmon salad.
Good to know
- How many servings does this recipe yield?
- The recipe does not specify the number of servings.
- Can I use a different type of cucumber?
- The recipe does not specify, but you can use any type of cucumber you prefer.
- What can I substitute for gochugaru?
- If you can't find gochugaru, you can use a small pinch of ground chili flakes, but be aware they are spicier.
- How do I make the vinaigrette for the Cucumber Onion, Tomato, Dill Salad?
- To make the vinaigrette, whisk together red wine vinegar, onion powder, grated garlic, and then slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking.
No life story here — the video and the recipe are the whole point. All credit to Chef Jack Ovens: watch the original on YouTube.
The recipe
Ingredients
Steps
- 1
Slice the cucumber into thin rounds using a mandolin or knife for accuracy.
- 2
Thinly slice half of a red onion into half-moon shapes.
- 3
Chop 2g of fresh dill and add to the bowl.
- 4
Roughly chop 2 teaspoons of capers and add to the bowl.
- 5
Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the bowl.
- 6
Tear 60g of smoked salmon into pieces and add to the bowl.
- 7
Season with salt and pepper, and optionally add MSG.
- 8
Mix all ingredients together until well combined and serve.
Heads up — we had to guess a little:
- Gochugaru is a coarsely ground Korean chilli powder that is similar to crushed red pepper flakes in texture. It is traditionally made from sun-dried peppers without the seeds. If you can't find it, you can use a small pinch of ground chilli flakes instead, but they are spicier.
Credit where it’s due: this recipe was transcribed from Chef Jack Ovens’s original video on YouTube. Follow them there — it’s their dish.
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