Smashed Cucumber Salad
This smashed cucumber salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold flavor from garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Easy to make in minutes, it’s the perfect fresh side dish for grilled meats, rice bowls, or Asian-inspired meals.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cucumbers Persian or Japanese cucumbers preferred
- ¼ cup coarsely chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- ¾ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- ¾ teaspoon freshly grated garlic
- 2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- Chili oil or red pepper flakes optional
- Small squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the cucumbers. Chop the cilantro and thinly slice the green onions.
- Make the Dressing: In a mason jar, combine the rice vinegar, salt, toasted sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, freshly grated garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and toasted sesame seeds. Secure the lid and shake well until fully combined.
- Smash the Cucumbers: Place each cucumber on a cutting board. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or the side of a large knife, gently press down until the cucumber cracks open.
- Cut into Pieces: Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, cilantro, and green onions.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to evenly coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Finish with Lime: Just before serving, add a small squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra brightness and freshness.
- Serve with a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Best enjoyed fresh on the same day.
Notes
- Persian or Japanese cucumbers are recommended for the best texture and flavor, as they contain fewer seeds and stay crisp longer.
- Smashing the cucumbers makes rough edges that absorb the dressing more effectively, giving the salad extra flavor in every bite.
- Freshly grated garlic and ginger provide a brighter, fresher taste compared to jarred pastes.
- For a spicier version, add extra chili oil, chili crisp, or thinly sliced fresh red chilies.
- This salad is best served chilled and enjoyed the same day for maximum crunch and freshness.
- If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to prevent excess moisture.
Nutrition
Calories: 65kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 678mg | Potassium: 349mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 293IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1mg