Ultimate 30-Minute Smashed Cucumber Salad You'll Crave
This 30-Minute Smashed Cucumber salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that elevates any meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Knife
- meat mallet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups Persian cucumbers smashed and sliced
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 stalks green onions chopped
- 0.5 cups cilantro optional
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons tamari soy sauce gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave for vegan option
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chili crisp adjust to taste
For the Finishing Touch
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds toasted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gently smash the cucumbers using the side of a knife or a meat mallet until the skin cracks. Slice them diagonally and let them sit in a colander to release excess moisture.
- Sprinkle the smashed cucumbers liberally with kosher salt. Toss gently and allow them to drain in the sink for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain thoroughly to keep them crisp.
- Transfer the drained cucumbers to a large mixing bowl. Add chopped green onions, cilantro (if using), and toasted sesame seeds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chili crisp.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated, and garnish with additional sesame seeds.
Notes
Feel free to customize the flavors and let the salad chill for 20 minutes before serving for enhanced taste.