Sunomono Salad

Delight your taste buds with this refreshing and tangy Sunomono Salad, a classic Japanese cucumber salad that’s light, flavorful, and effortlessly easy to prepare. Featuring thinly sliced Japanese or English cucumbers, this simple dish is elevated by a delicate balance of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from sugar. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and optional wakame for a hint of the sea, it’s a perfect mix of crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Add crab sticks or cooked shrimp for a protein-packed twist that transforms this salad into a satisfying appetizer or light meal. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this recipe is ideal for hot summer days or whenever you crave a healthy, low-calorie side dish bursting with umami goodness.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces Japanese cucumbers (or English cucumbers)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 4 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon Optional wakame (dried seaweed)
• 100 grams Optional crab sticks or cooked shrimp (for protein addition)

Directions

Step 1

Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for slices that are about 1/8-inch thick.

Step 2

Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle them with the salt. Toss to combine and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.

Step 3

If using wakame, rehydrate it by soaking in warm water for 5-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 5

After 10 minutes, rinse the cucumber slices under cold water to remove the salt, then gently squeeze them to remove any excess liquid. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, dressing, sesame seeds, and wakame, if using. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 7

If desired, add crab sticks or cooked shrimp for additional protein, and gently mix them into the salad.

Step 8

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of additional sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(193.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	210.5

Total Fat 0.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 20mg	0%
Sodium 1138.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 34.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g	0%
Total Sugars 30.6g
Protein 14.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 59.5mg	0%
Iron 0.9mg	0%
Potassium 133.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 3.1%

Protein: 28.5%

Carbs: 68.4%