Smashed Cucumber Salad - Garlicky, Refreshing and Spicy!

Ingredients

• 2 pieces Cucumber (Persian or English) (washed, ends trimmed, sliced and smashed)
• 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce (fermented soybeans, Chinese light soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar (seasoned rice vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (toasted sesame oil)
• 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (to melt into the sauce)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced finely)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (chopped; optional substitute: scallions)
• 1 teaspoon Chili Oil (optional, adjust heat to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Wash and Brush Cucumbers

   Rinse the cucumbers under cold water and scrub the skins with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt.

   Time: PT2M

2. Trim Ends and Slice

   Cut off both ends of each cucumber. Slice each cucumber lengthwise into 2‑3 large sections, then make a few shallow cuts across the width to create bite‑size pieces.

   Time: PT2M

3. Smash the Cucumbers

   Place each cucumber section on the cutting board and press down firmly with the flat side of the cleaver (or a rolling pin) until the flesh cracks and creates rough edges.

   Time: PT5M

4. Deseed (if needed)

   If using Persian cucumbers with large seeds, slice the cucumber open and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.

   Time: PT2M

5. Mince Garlic

   Peel and mince the garlic cloves into a fine paste.

   Time: PT1M

6. Prepare the Sauce

   In a small saucepan combine the sugar, sesame oil, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Heat over low‑medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.

   Time: PT2M

7. Add Garlic to Sauce

   Stir the minced garlic into the warm sauce and let sit for 30 seconds.

   Time: PT1M

8. Toast Sesame Seeds

   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

   Time: PT2M

9. Combine Sauce with Cucumbers

   Just before serving, pour the warm sauce over the smashed cucumbers and toss gently to coat.

   Time: PT1M

10. Finish with Herbs and Chili Oil

    Add chopped cilantro, drizzle chili oil (if using), and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds. Toss once more.

    Time: PT1M

11. Serve

    Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, garnish with a few extra cilantro leaves, and enjoy immediately.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

80

Protein

1 g

Carbohydrates

5 g

Fat

5 g

Fiber

1 g