Garlic Smashed Cucumber Salad - super refreshing!

Ingredients

• 2 medium Cucumber (Ends trimmed, smashed with the side of a knife, then cut into bite‑size pieces)
• 1 tsp Salt (Sprinkled over cucumbers before resting)
• 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (Balances the salt and brightens the flavor)
• 5 cloves Garlic (Finely minced; used both raw in the dressing and fried in oil)
• 2 tbsp Neutral Oil (vegetable or canola) (For infusing with garlic; heated briefly)
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (Adds umami; use gluten‑free tamari if needed)
• 1 tbsp Black Rice Vinegar (Provides mild acidity; can substitute with rice vinegar)
• 2 tbsp Cilantro (Freshly chopped, added at the end)
• 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds (Toasted lightly for crunch)

Instructions

1. Trim and Smash Cucumbers

   Cut off the ends of each cucumber. Place the cucumber on the cutting board and press down firmly with the flat side of the chef’s knife to lightly smash it, then slice into bite‑size pieces.

   Time: PT5M

2. Season and Rest

   Transfer the cucumber pieces to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp sugar, toss to coat, and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess water.

   Time: PT20M

3. Prepare Garlic Oil

   While the cucumbers rest, finely mince the garlic cloves. Heat 2 tbsp neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat (≈150°C). Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: Medium heat

4. Drain Excess Water

   After the 20‑minute rest, pour off the liquid that has accumulated in the bowl. Pat the cucumber pieces lightly with a paper towel if they still feel wet.

   Time: PT2M

5. Combine Dressing Ingredients

   In the small bowl, whisk together the garlic‑infused oil, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp black rice vinegar, and the remaining raw minced garlic (optional for extra punch).

   Time: PT3M

6. Dress the Cucumbers

   Pour the dressing over the drained cucumber pieces. Add chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

   Time: PT3M

7. Serve

   Transfer the salad to a serving plate and enjoy immediately, or chill for up to 30 minutes for a colder bite.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

80

Protein

2 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

5 g

Fiber

1 g