The BEST cucumber salad 🥒

The BEST cucumber salad 🥒 is a easy Chinese recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Pick Up Limes on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 30 min

Cost: $11.04 total, $2.76 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces Mini Cucumbers (halved and lightly smashed)
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves (optional, roughly chopped)
  • 0.25 cup Unsalted Peanuts (roughly chopped and toasted)
  • 2 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (lightly toasted)
  • 2 tablespoon Peanut Butter (smooth, natural)
  • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (low‑sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon Agave Syrup (or honey for non‑vegan)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Crushed Dried Garlic (or 1 fresh garlic clove minced)
  • 2 tablespoon Water (to thin dressing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cucumbers

    Wash the mini cucumbers, halve them lengthwise, then lightly smash each half with the flat side of the chef's knife before slicing into bite‑size pieces.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Toast Peanuts and Sesame Seeds

    Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the peanuts and toast, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until golden. Then add the sesame seeds and toast an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium heat

  3. Chop Cilantro (Optional)

    Roughly chop the cilantro leaves and set aside.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Make Dressing

    In the small mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, agave syrup, crushed dried garlic, and water. Whisk until smooth and adjust water to reach a pourable consistency.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Assemble Salad

    In a serving bowl, toss the smashed cucumbers with the chopped cilantro, toasted peanuts, and sesame seeds. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat evenly.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Serve

    Transfer the salad to plates or a serving platter, garnish with a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
4g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
10g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian

Allergens: peanuts, soy

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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The BEST cucumber salad 🥒

Recipe by Pick Up Limes

A vibrant, creamy, crunchy Chinese-inspired smashed cucumber salad with a zingy peanut‑lime dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side or light lunch.

EasyChineseServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$11.04
Total cost
$2.76
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Step 1 – Properly smash the cucumbers so they absorb dressing
  • Step 2 – Toast peanuts and sesame seeds until golden but not burnt
  • Step 4 – Achieve the right dressing consistency by adjusting water

Safety Warnings

  • Be careful when toasting nuts to avoid burns.
  • Use a sharp knife safely when smashing cucumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chinese smashed cucumber salad in Chinese cuisine?

A

Chinese smashed cucumber salad, known as "拍黄瓜" (pai huang gua), is a classic cold dish that dates back to the Qing dynasty. It showcases the Chinese culinary emphasis on texture, balance of sour, sweet, and umami, and the technique of lightly smashing vegetables to enhance flavor absorption.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Chinese smashed cucumber salad in different parts of China?

A

In Sichuan, the salad often includes chili oil and Sichuan pepper for a numbing heat. In Cantonese versions, a lighter rice‑vinegar dressing is used, while in Shanghai the dressing may feature sugar and a hint of Shaoxing wine. The Pick Up Limes version adds a creamy peanut‑lime twist.

cultural
Q

How is Chinese smashed cucumber salad traditionally served in Chinese meals?

A

It is traditionally served as a cold appetizer or side dish (凉菜) alongside hot dishes, providing a refreshing contrast. It is commonly presented in a small bowl or platter and eaten with chopsticks.

cultural
Q

During which Chinese celebrations or occasions is smashed cucumber salad commonly enjoyed?

A

While not tied to a specific holiday, it appears frequently at family gatherings, summer banquets, and during the Lunar New Year as a palate‑cleansing dish that symbolizes freshness and good health.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are used in classic Chinese smashed cucumber salad versus the substitutes used in this recipe?

A

Traditional recipes use plain soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, sesame oil, and sometimes sugar. This recipe substitutes agave syrup for sugar, adds peanut butter for creaminess, and uses lime juice for a brighter acidity while keeping the core flavors intact.

cultural
Q

What other Chinese dishes pair well with this creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, braised pork belly, Kung Pao chicken, or any spicy Sichuan main course, as the cool salad balances heat and richness.

cultural
Q

What makes this creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad special or unique in Chinese-inspired cuisine?

A

The addition of a peanut‑lime dressing creates a creamy, nutty umami layer not found in traditional versions, while retaining the signature smashed texture and refreshing tang, making it a fusion twist that appeals to modern, health‑focused palates.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad?

A

Common mistakes include over‑smashing the cucumbers so they become mushy, under‑toasting the peanuts and sesame seeds which leads to a bland crunch, and making the dressing too thick, which prevents even coating.

technical
Q

How do I know when the creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad is done cooking?

A

The salad requires no cooking; it is done when the cucumbers are smashed but still crisp, the nuts are golden and fragrant, and the dressing coats the vegetables smoothly without pooling.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Pick Up Limes specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Pick Up Limes, hosted by Sadia Badiei, specializes in plant‑based, nutritious recipes, wellness tips, and minimalist cooking techniques that emphasize whole‑food ingredients and balanced nutrition.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Pick Up Limes' approach to Chinese‑inspired cooking differ from other Chinese cooking channels?

A

Pick Up Limes focuses on vegan, gluten‑free adaptations and health‑forward ingredient swaps, such as using peanut butter and agave syrup, whereas many traditional Chinese cooking channels prioritize authentic flavor profiles with animal‑based ingredients and less emphasis on dietary restrictions.

channel

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