Smashed Cucumber Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor. The technique of smashing the cucumbers enhances their ability to soak up the tangy, spicy dressing, making each bite a crunchy, juicy explosion of taste. This salad is light, hydrating, and perfect for hot summer days or as a crisp side to your favorite meal.
I love making Smashed Cucumber Salad during family picnics or casual dinners. It’s a dish that always surprises and delights guests with its unique texture and flavor. The smashing part is actually fun, and it gives the cucumbers a rustic look that I adore. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when I want something quick, healthy, and delicious.
Smashed Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Smash the cucumbers: Place the cucumbers on a cutting board and gently smash them with a rolling pin or the side of a knife until they split open. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the cucumbers: Transfer the cucumber pieces to a mixing bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain any liquid.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Calories: 60
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Vitamin K: 20%
- Iron: 4%
- Calcium: 2%
- Potassium: 5%
Number of Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Equipment/Utensils:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Rolling pin or a heavy object for smashing
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Serving dish
Preparation Steps:
- Smash the cucumbers: Place the cucumbers on a cutting board and gently smash them with a rolling pin or the side of a knife until they split open. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the cucumbers: Transfer the cucumber pieces to a mixing bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain any liquid.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 60
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Vitamins and Minerals (per serving):
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Vitamin K: 20%
- Iron: 4%
- Calcium: 2%
- Potassium: 5%
This Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and easy dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a side dish, or something to add a bit of crunch to your meal, this salad is sure to hit the spot!
