When I think of summer picnics and barbecues, one dish that always brings a smile to my face is the refreshing Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick. It takes me back to family gatherings where these delightful little bites were the star of the show. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that everyone loves. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that you’ll want to whip up again and again!
Why You’ll Love Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick 10 minutes
- Fast: You can have these tasty bites ready in just 10 minutes.
- Easy: With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
- Giftable: These pickled cucumbers make a thoughtful addition to any potluck or picnic.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even those who claim they don’t like cucumbers will be surprised by how much they enjoy these!
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers – Fresh and crunchy, they are the star of this dish!
- 1 tablespoon salt – Helps draw out moisture and enhance flavor.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – Adds a tangy taste that balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – A touch of sweetness to complement the vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – For that umami depth we all love.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a lovely nutty aroma to the cucumbers.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – For a delightful crunch.
- Skewers or toothpicks – Perfect for serving these little bites!
How to Make Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick 10 minutes
Now, let’s get started on making these easy and delicious pickled cucumbers!
- Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.
- In a bowl, sprinkle the cucumbers with salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved.
- Drain the cucumbers and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Add the cucumbers to the vinegar mixture and toss to coat.
- Let the cucumbers marinate for 5 minutes.
- Thread the marinated cucumbers onto skewers or toothpicks.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun ideas:
- Try adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap out rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Add some sliced radishes or carrots for extra color and crunch.
Tips for Success
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make this recipe:
- Don’t skip the salting step; it really helps with flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste—some like it sweeter!
- These cucumbers can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep.
How to Store Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick 10 minutes
Store any leftover pickled cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just remember that the cucumbers will continue to soften as they sit, so enjoy them while they are still crunchy!
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! This pickling method works well with carrots, radishes, or even bell peppers.
How spicy can I make these? You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes you use or by adding sliced jalapenos.
And there you have it—a delightful recipe for Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick that’s sure to impress your friends and family! For more delicious recipes, check out this quick and easy salad or this melt-in-your-mouth fudge for treats you will love!
If you’re a fan of these kinds of recipes, be sure to follow us on Pinterest for more inspiration!


Japanese Pickled Cucumber on a Stick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.
- Step 2: In a bowl, sprinkle the cucumbers with salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved.
- Step 4: Drain the cucumbers and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Step 5: Add the cucumbers to the vinegar mixture and toss to coat.
- Step 6: Let the cucumbers marinate for 5 minutes.
- Step 7: Thread the marinated cucumbers onto skewers or toothpicks.
- Step 8: Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!