Cucumber Tomato Salad with Shio Koji Dressing
Cucumber Tomato Salad with Shio Koji Dressing (Easy Japanese Summer Salad)
When tomatoes are juicy and cucumbers are crisp, this simple salad with Japanese dressing is one of my favorite side dishes to make. The dressing comes together in minutes with shio koji, a traditional Japanese fermented seasoning that adds natural umami without needing many ingredients.
The combination of sweet tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and fragrant ginger makes this salad refreshing enough for hot summer days, while the sesame oil gives it a rich, nutty finish.
Whether you're serving grilled fish, karaage, teriyaki chicken, or simply looking for a healthy vegetable side dish, this cucumber tomato salad is an easy recipe you'll come back to all season long.
What is Shio Koji?
Shio koji is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from rice koji, salt, and water that has been fermented. It has a mild salty flavor with natural sweetness and plenty of umami.
It's commonly used to:
Marinate meat and fish
Season vegetables
Make salad dressings
Enhance soups and stir-fries
In this recipe, shio koji replaces much of the salt while adding a gentle depth of flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 10 minutes
Fresh and healthy
Naturally full of umami
Perfect for summer
Great alongside Japanese meals
Not much cooking required
If you have time, lightly salt the cucumber slices for about 10 minutes before making the salad. Gently squeeze out the excess moisture, then toss them with the dressing. This keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from becoming watery.
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 10 min
Ingredients:
2 tomatoes
2 persian cucumbers
Dressing
1/8 red onion
1 tbsp shio koji
1/2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
Cut ingredients:
Cut the tomatoes and cucumbers into small bite-size pieces.
Chop red onion.
Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together: chopped onion, shio koji, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger
Mix the salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
Toss gently until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes for even more flavor.
FAQ
What is shio koji?
Shio koji is a Japanese fermented seasoning made from rice koji, salt, and water. It naturally enhances the flavor of vegetables, meat, fish, and soups.
Can I make this salad ahead?
Yes. It can be made about 30 minutes ahead and refrigerated. It's best eaten the same day.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely. Cherry tomatoes work wonderfully and make the salad even easier to prepare.
What kind of cucumber should I use?
Japanese cucumbers, Persian cucumbers, or English cucumbers all work well. Remove the seeds if desired.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Avocado, wakame seaweed, corn, or sliced radishes are delicious additions.
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