Cold Sesame Cucumber Noodles (Oi Naengguk Style)

Ingredients

• 2 medium English cucumber
• 1/4 tsp salt(optional)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey or sugar
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1/4 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Spiralize or julienne the cucumbers into noodle shapes. Place in a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let sit 5 minutes; then squeeze out excess water and chill the noodles.

2. 2

   Cook (5 minutes): Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium-low heat for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently. Remove to a plate to cool.

3. 3

   Make dressing (5 minutes, included in the 10-minute prep): In a small bowl, whisk sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), grated garlic, and gochugaru (if using).

4. 4

   Assemble: Toss chilled cucumber noodles with the sesame-soy dressing until evenly coated. Top with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.