Try this instead of your usual salad when you’re looking for something cool, crisp, and spicy. The dish should be assembled just before serving; if you have to prepare it ahead of time, keep the cucumber and seasoning sauce separate from each other and mix them together at the last minute. Also, it’s best to make only what you need for one meal; leftovers will never be as good as the just-made salad.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 English cucumber, or 2 or 3 Kirby cucumbers (about 12 ounces)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 scallion, chopped
• ¼ cup thinly sliced onion
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons Korean hot pepper flakes (gochu-garu)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut the cucumber lengthwise in half (if using Kirby cucumbers, remove the seeds). Cut diagonally into thin slices.
2. Put the cucumbers in a bowl, add all the remaining ingredients, and mix well with a wooden spoon or your hands.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately.