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A bowl of chopped cucumber salad with red pepper flakes and cilantro, accompanied by a silver spoon. A small bowl of fresh cilantro is placed next to the salad.

Smashed Cucumber Salad

Chef Jenn
This Smashed Cucumber Salad is a simple yet bold dish featuring crunchy cucumbers, a tangy soy-sesame dressing, and a hint of spice. Quick, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Aisan-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 68 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 green onion sliced

Instructions
 

  • Slice off the ends and cut them in half lengthwise. Using the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin, gently press down to smash them until they split open. Tear them into bite-sized pieces.
  • Toss the smashed cucumbers with salt and let them sit in a strainer for about 10 minutes to remove excess water.
  • Whisk together the minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes until fully blended.
  • Transfer the drained cucumbers to a mixing bowl and drizzle the dressing over them. Toss well to coat evenly.
  • Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for garnish.
  • You can serve it right away, but for the best flavor, let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before eating.

Notes

Chef Jenn’s Tips

  • Stick to English cucumbers – They’re crunchier and contain fewer seeds, making them the best option for this dish.
  • Let it sit – The longer the salad rests, the better the flavors meld together.
  • Add extra crunch – Try topping it with crushed peanuts or crispy fried shallots for more texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 68kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 841mgPotassium: 253mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 275IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.

Keyword Asian cucumber salad, cucumber side dish, sesame cucumber salad, smashed cucumber salad
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