Go Back
- 2 large cucumbers - 1 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option) - 1 tablespoon sugar - 1 garlic clove, finely minced - 1 teaspoon chili oil (or to taste) - 2 green onions, thinly chopped - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish - Various herbs (mint, dill) - Additional spices (red pepper flakes, black pepper) - Other vegetables (radishes, bell peppers) Smashed cucumber salad shines with its simple and fresh ingredients. Start with two large cucumbers. Choose firm ones for the best crunch. The salt helps to draw out moisture, making the cucumbers crispier. Use a teaspoon of salt for even coverage. Next, the dressing adds flavor. Combine two tablespoons of rice vinegar, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and one tablespoon of soy sauce. For a gluten-free version, choose tamari. The sugar balances the sour notes. A minced garlic clove gives a nice kick. For some heat, add one teaspoon of chili oil. You can adjust this to match your taste. Lastly, green onions and toasted sesame seeds add depth and texture. Fresh cilantro leaves serve as a bright garnish. Feel free to explore optional add-ins! Fresh herbs like mint or dill can enhance the flavor. You can also add spices like red pepper flakes for a bit more heat. Other veggies like radishes or bell peppers add a fun crunch. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this delightful dish! - First, wash the cucumbers under cold water. - Trim off both ends of each cucumber. - Now, place each cucumber on a cutting board. - Use the flat side of a knife or a roller. - Gently smash the cucumbers until they crack. - Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. - Place the pieces in a large mixing bowl. - Sprinkle one teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers. - Toss them gently to coat every piece. - Let them sit for 10 minutes to drain water. - In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar and sesame oil. - Add soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil. - Whisk the mixture until the sugar is dissolved. - Drain any excess water from the cucumbers. - Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. - Toss them well to coat with the dressing. - Add chopped green onions and sesame seeds. - Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to marinate. - Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro. You can find the full recipe for this delicious dish above. - How to properly smash cucumbers To smash cucumbers, wash them well. Trim both ends. Place the cucumber on a board. Use the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin. Press down gently but firmly. You want them to crack and break into large chunks. This method allows flavor to soak in while keeping their shape. - Ensuring even salting for optimal flavor After cutting the smashed cucumbers, sprinkle salt evenly. Toss the pieces gently to coat all sides. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out extra water and enhances flavor. The result is a crisp and tasty salad. - Recommended serving vessels Serve this salad in a bright, wide bowl. A clear glass bowl makes the colors pop. The vibrant greens and warm sesame seeds look great together. A shallow dish allows guests to see the fresh ingredients easily. - Pairing options with main dishes This salad works well with grilled meats, rice, or fish. Its light flavor balances hearty dishes. You can also serve it next to spicy foods. The cool cucumbers soothe the heat. - Suggestions for spice levels If you like heat, add more chili oil. Start with a small amount and taste. You can also mix in red pepper flakes for a different spice. Adjust it to match your taste. - Ways to add crunch or freshness Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Toasted peanuts or cashews work well. Fresh herbs like mint or dill can boost flavor too. They add a nice pop of freshness to the dish. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad section! {{image_4}} You can give your smashed cucumber salad an Asian twist. Try adding different sauces like hoisin or ponzu. These sauces add a sweet and tangy flavor that makes the dish pop. Another option is to add nuts, such as peanuts or cashews. They bring a crunchy texture and a rich nutty taste. This mix of flavors will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute some ingredients. Use a low-calorie sweetener instead of sugar. You can also swap out soy sauce for a low-sodium option. For those needing gluten-free meals, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. These small changes can make a big difference without losing taste. You can make your salad shine with seasonal produce. In summer, add fresh tomatoes or sweet corn for a burst of color. In spring, try adding radishes for a peppery crunch. These seasonal adjustments make the salad taste fresh and vibrant. You can adapt the recipe to fit any season and enjoy new flavors all year round. For the full recipe, check out the detailed preparation steps. To keep your smashed cucumber salad fresh, use an airtight container. Glass containers work well, as they do not stain or retain odors. Always let the salad cool before sealing it. For best results, store the salad in the fridge right after serving. This salad stays good in the fridge for about three days. After that, the cucumbers may become soft and lose their crunch. To maintain texture and flavor, eat the salad within two days. You can also store the dressing separately to keep the cucumbers crisp. If you have leftover salad, try adding it to a wrap or sandwich for a crunchy bite. You can also mix it into rice or quinoa for a tasty grain bowl. Consider using the salad in a stir-fry or topping grilled fish for extra flavor. You can reinvent this dish in many ways! For the full recipe, check out the crispy smashed cucumber salad. What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe? I recommend using English cucumbers. They are long, crisp, and have fewer seeds. This makes them perfect for smashing. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if the skin is thick. Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, you can. However, it’s best to wait to add the dressing until right before serving. This keeps the cucumbers crisp and fresh. You can prepare the cucumbers and the dressing separately ahead of time. What if I don’t have sesame oil? No problem! You can use olive oil or a light vegetable oil instead. While the flavor changes, you will still have a tasty salad. You can also add a bit of toasted sesame seeds for a hint of that nutty flavor. Can I customize the dressing ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the flavors to suit your taste. You might want to add some lime juice for brightness or swap sugar for honey. Experimenting makes the recipe fun and personal! What dishes pair well with smashed cucumber salad? This salad is great with grilled meats, rice dishes, or noodles. Its lightness balances heavier meals well. Try it next to barbecue chicken or a stir-fry for a fresh twist. Is this salad suitable for outdoor gatherings? Yes, it is perfect for picnics or barbecues! It stays tasty even when served cold. Just remember to keep it cool to maintain that crispness. Enjoy it with friends on a sunny day! Smashed cucumber salad is fresh, tasty, and easy to make. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to enhance flavor. You can customize it with your favorite herbs and veggies. Remember to let it marinate so the flavors blend well. This salad is great for summer meals or gatherings. Enjoy exploring variations and serving options. With simple storage tips, you can keep it fresh for later. This dish will brighten up your table and impress your guests.

Smashed Cucumber Salad

Experience the refreshing taste of Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad with this easy-to-follow recipe! Made with simple ingredients like cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this salad is perfect for summer picnics or light meals. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that combines crunchy textures and zesty flavors. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your guests with this delightful salad!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

1 tablespoon sugar

1 garlic clove, finely minced

1 teaspoon chili oil (or to taste)

2 green onions, thinly chopped

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cucumbers: Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers under cold water, then trim off both ends.

    Smash the Cucumbers: Place each cucumber on a large cutting board. Using the flat side of a chef's knife or a rolling pin, gently smash the cucumbers until they break into large pieces, but remain intact enough to hold their shape.

      Cut the Smashed Cucumbers: Chop the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and transfer them into a spacious mixing bowl.

        Salt the Cucumbers: Evenly sprinkle the salt over the cut cucumbers, gently tossing them to ensure every piece is coated. Allow the cucumbers to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

          Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari), sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil. Whisk everything together until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is well blended.

            Drain the Cucumbers: After 10 minutes, drain any excess water that has accumulated from the cucumbers to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

              Combine: Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss thoroughly until all pieces are well coated with the flavorful dressing.

                Add Garnishes: Incorporate the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, tossing gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

                  Let it Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes, which lets the flavors meld beautifully together.

                    Garnish & Serve: Just before serving, top the salad with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                        - Präsentationstipps: Serve the salad in a vibrant bowl, enhancing the presentation with additional cilantro on top and a light sprinkle of extra sesame seeds for an appealing finish.