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Smashed Cucumber Salad – Refreshing Crunchy Side Dish

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Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing Asian-inspired side dish made with crisp cucumbers, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and savory seasonings for maximum flavor.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 Persian or English cucumbers
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
  2. Place cucumbers on a cutting board and gently smash them using a rolling pin or the flat side of a knife.
  3. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Toss cucumbers with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
  5. Drain excess liquid released from the cucumbers.
  6. In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili oil.
  7. Add cucumbers and minced garlic to the dressing.
  8. Toss until evenly coated.
  9. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts if desired.
  10. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • English or Persian cucumbers provide the best texture.
  • Salting cucumbers helps remove excess moisture.
  • Adjust chili oil to control spice level.
  • Serve fresh for maximum crunch.
  • Toasted sesame seeds add extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 days.

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