Try these Smashed Cucumber Noodles

Try these Smashed Cucumber Noodles is a easy Thai recipe that serves 2. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Good Food on YouTube.

Prep: 26 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 38 min

Cost: $16.00 total, $8.00 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 medium Cucumber (English cucumber, sliced lengthwise then smashed)
  • 100 g Rice Vermicelli Noodles (Thin rice noodles, soaked in warm water until soft)
  • 2 tbsp Tahini (Smooth, well‑stirred)
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (Low‑sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar (Chinese rice vinegar)
  • 1 tsp Sichuan Peppercorns (Toasted lightly until fragrant)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander (Chopped)
  • 1 tbsp Crispy Chili Oil (For topping; store‑bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp Sugar (Balances acidity)
  • ¼ tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Smash the Cucumbers

    Slice each cucumber lengthwise, then place the halves on a cutting board and gently smash them with a rolling pin or the flat side of a heavy skillet until broken into bite‑size pieces.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Toast the Sichuan Peppercorns

    Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the Sichuan peppercorns, and toast for 1‑2 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until fragrant.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Make the Dressing

    In a mixing bowl whisk together tahini, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, toasted peppercorns, sugar, and salt until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Soak the Rice Noodles

    Place the rice vermicelli in a bowl of warm water and let soak for 8‑10 minutes until softened. Drain in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water.

    Time: PT10M

  5. Combine the Salad

    In a large bowl combine the smashed cucumbers, drained noodles, and chopped coriander. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Finish with Chili Oil

    Drizzle the crispy chili oil over the top of the salad just before serving for a burst of heat and texture.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
5g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
12g
Fiber
4g

Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free (use tamari), Dairy‑Free

Allergens: Sesame, Soy

Last updated: April 21, 2026

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Try these Smashed Cucumber Noodles

Recipe by Good Food

A quick, refreshing Asian‑inspired salad featuring smashed cucumbers, soft rice noodles, a creamy tahini‑soy dressing, toasted Sichuan peppercorns, and a drizzle of crispy chili oil. Perfect for a work‑from‑home lunch or light dinner.

EasyThaiServes 2

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

Source Video
28m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
38m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$16.00
Total cost
$8.00
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Smash the cucumbers to achieve the right texture
  • Toast the Sichuan peppercorns without burning
  • Whisk the dressing until smooth and properly emulsified
  • Soak the rice noodles to the correct tenderness

Safety Warnings

  • Use caution when handling the hot skillet for toasting peppercorns to avoid burns.
  • Ensure the rolling pin or skillet is stable to prevent slipping while smashing cucumbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber noodle salads in Thai cuisine?

A

Cucumber‑based salads are a staple in Thai cuisine, especially during the hot season, offering a cooling contrast to spicy dishes. The combination of fresh cucumber, herbs, and a tangy dressing reflects Thailand’s emphasis on balance of flavors and textures.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber noodle salads in Thai cuisine?

A

In Central Thailand, cucumber salads often feature peanuts and palm sugar, while in the Northeast (Isan) they may include fermented fish sauce (pla ra) and dried chilies. Southern versions sometimes add coconut milk for richness.

cultural
Q

How is a smash sesame cucumber noodle salad traditionally served in Thailand?

A

It is typically served at room temperature as a side dish (a "kinom") alongside grilled meats or fried fish, allowing the fresh crunch to cleanse the palate between richer courses.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is cucumber noodle salad traditionally associated with in Thai culture?

A

Cucumber salads are common at family gatherings, street‑food festivals, and as a refreshing accompaniment during the Songkran water festival when people seek light, cooling foods.

cultural
Q

What other Thai dishes pair well with smash sesame cucumber noodle salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken satay, spicy papaya salad (som tam), and coconut‑milk based curries such as green curry or massaman, providing a crisp counterpoint.

cultural
Q

What makes smash sesame cucumber noodle salad special in Thai cuisine?

A

The technique of lightly smashing the cucumber releases its juices while preserving crunch, and the toasted Sichuan peppercorns add a subtle numbing spice that is uncommon in typical Thai salads, giving the dish a unique flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smash sesame cucumber noodle salad?

A

Common errors include over‑smashing the cucumber into mush, burning the peppercorns, using too much tahini which makes the dressing heavy, and letting the noodles sit too long and become soggy.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe toast Sichuan peppercorns instead of using plain black pepper?

A

Toasting Sichuan peppercorns releases their citrusy, slightly numbing aroma, adding depth and a distinctive Thai‑inspired flavor that balances the creamy tahini dressing better than ordinary black pepper.

technical
Q

Can I make smash sesame cucumber noodle salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and soak the noodles up to a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and combine with the smashed cucumbers just before serving to keep the texture crisp.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Good Food specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Good Food specializes in quick, approachable home‑cooking videos that focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple techniques for everyday meals.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Good Food's approach to Thai‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Good Food emphasizes minimal prep time and uses pantry‑friendly ingredients, often adapting traditional Thai flavors into streamlined recipes that require no exotic equipment, making them more accessible to home cooks.

channel

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