Crispy Asian-Style Smashed Cucumber Salad
A quick and easy Asian-inspired smashed cucumber salad with a nutty sesame dressing, perfect as a refreshing side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium English cucumbers
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry cucumbers thoroughly.
- Trim ends and cut cucumbers into 2-3 inch chunks.
- Place each cucumber piece on a cutting board and smash firmly with a rolling pin or the flat side of a chef’s knife until it cracks and splits open.
- Transfer smashed cucumbers to a large bowl, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, toss gently, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
- While cucumbers rest, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
- Drain any liquid from cucumbers after 10 minutes, gently squeezing if needed but keeping some moisture.
- Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes to marry flavors (optional but recommended).
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Use toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Salt cucumbers and drain excess water to avoid sogginess. Mince garlic finely to avoid overpowering bites. Let salad rest 5-15 minutes before serving for best flavor. Can substitute tamari for gluten-free soy sauce. Optional additions include chili oil for heat or fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, sesame cucumber salad, quick side dish, easy cucumber salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad