Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that combines crisp cucumbers with a flavorful dressing made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil. Perfect as a light side dish or a palate-cleansing appetizer, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
The smashing technique allows the cucumbers to better absorb the tangy, savory dressing, enhancing their natural juiciness and creating a more flavorful bite. This salad is not only quick and easy to make but also offers a refreshing contrast to richer main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
We like to serve with refreshing side dish with Crispy Sesame Chicken for a balanced meal.
Helpful Tips
- Smash for maximum flavor: Use the side of a knife or a rolling pin to lightly smash the cucumbers before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. This technique creates more surface area for the dressing to adhere to and helps the cucumbers absorb more flavor.
- Let it marinate: Allow the smashed cucumbers to sit in the dressing for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief marination period enhances the flavor and ensures the cucumbers are well-seasoned.
- Adjust the heat: Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili flakes or adding a touch of sriracha to the dressing. This allows you to tailor the salad to your taste preferences or the preferences of your guests.
With these tips, you’ll be able to create a Smashed Cucumber Salad that’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with refreshing flavors. Enjoy this light and tangy dish with your favorite meals!
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Smashed Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 1 seedless cucumber
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Chinese rice vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 1/4 teaspoons (5 g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) chili oil optional
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) toasted sesame seeds
- Handful of chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Set the cucumber on a cutting board. Press a large knife flat against the cucumber and press down firmly with your free hand. The cucumber should crack open and smash into four sections. You may need to repeat this along the length of the cucumber. Once the whole cucumber is completely open (usually in 4 long sections), cut it at a 45-degree angle into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cucumber with the prepared dressing and chili oil, if using. Toss to coat. Serve, garnished with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Notes
- Use the side of a knife or a rolling pin to lightly smash the cucumbers before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. This technique creates more surface area for the dressing to adhere to and helps the cucumbers absorb more flavor.
- Allow the smashed cucumbers to sit in the dressing for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief marination period enhances the flavor and ensures the cucumbers are well-seasoned.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili flakes or adding a touch of sriracha to the dressing. This allows you to tailor the salad to your taste preferences or the preferences of your guests.
Nutrition
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Laura is a home cook, with 25 years experience behind the stove, who spends an extraordinary amount of time in the kitchen cooking. She loves making new recipes and finding wonderful new things to eat, both at home or abroad. She spends a lot of time researching, crafting, and perfecting her recipes and currently has a cookbook in development.
