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
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
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
Chop Cilantro (Optional)
Roughly chop the cilantro leaves and set aside.
Time: PT2M
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
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
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
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Mini Cucumbers: regular cucumbers, sliced
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Thai basil, parsley
- Instead of Unsalted Peanuts: cashews, almonds
- Instead of Toasted Sesame Seeds: pumpkin seeds
- Instead of Peanut Butter: almond butter, tahini
- Instead of Soy Sauce: tamari, coconut aminos
- Instead of Lime Juice: lemon juice
- Instead of Agave Syrup: maple syrup, honey
- Instead of Crushed Dried Garlic: garlic powder, fresh garlic
- Instead of Water: vegetable broth
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Small Skillet (optional)
- Spoon
- Serving Bowl
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- 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
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra zing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Use a wooden spoon to gently toss the salad to avoid bruising the cucumbers further.
- If you prefer a smoother dressing, blend the ingredients in a small food processor.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is too thick
Add water a teaspoon at a time while whisking until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.
Cucumbers become soggy
Serve immediately after tossing, or keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Nuts are under‑toasted or burnt
Toast over medium heat, stirring constantly; remove from heat as soon as they turn golden and fragrant.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; cucumbers may become softer.
Freezer: Not recommended to freeze.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dressing up to 2 days ahead and store in a sealed jar.
- Toast peanuts and sesame seeds, keep in a sealed bag, and add just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chinese smashed cucumber salad in Chinese cuisine?
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.
What are the traditional regional variations of Chinese smashed cucumber salad in different parts of China?
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.
How is Chinese smashed cucumber salad traditionally served in Chinese meals?
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.
During which Chinese celebrations or occasions is smashed cucumber salad commonly enjoyed?
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.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in classic Chinese smashed cucumber salad versus the substitutes used in this recipe?
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.
What other Chinese dishes pair well with this creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad?
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.
What makes this creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad special or unique in Chinese-inspired cuisine?
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.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad?
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.
How do I know when the creamy crunchy zingy smashed cucumber salad is done cooking?
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.
What does the YouTube channel Pick Up Limes specialize in?
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.
How does the YouTube channel Pick Up Limes' approach to Chinese‑inspired cooking differ from other Chinese cooking channels?
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.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
