Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and simple dish that celebrates the natural crunch and freshness of cucumbers. This recipe takes a unique approach by smashing the cucumbers before combining them with a flavorful dressing, resulting in a delightful texture and taste.
To prepare this salad, crisp cucumbers are first smashed with a rolling pin or the back of a knife, creating irregular, bite-sized pieces that allow the dressing to penetrate and infuse every bite. The smashing process enhances the cucumber’s ability to absorb the flavors, making it a perfect canvas for the vibrant dressing.
The dressing typically consists of ingredients like rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a touch of sugar. This blend adds a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes, complementing the natural freshness of the cucumbers.
Additional elements like sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or cilantro contribute to the overall flavor profile and visual appeal of the Smashed Cucumber Salad. This dish is known for its simplicity and ability to complement a wide range of main courses, making it a versatile and popular choice, especially during warm weather.
With its crisp texture and zesty dressing, Smashed Cucumber Salad is a delightful side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal, making it a favorite in various cuisines around the world.
Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe | S2Recipes
Details Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients For Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipes
2 English cucumbers
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed
1 teaspoon white sugar
2 cloves garlic, finely crushed
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
red pepper flakes to taste
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
Instructions: Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipes
Step 1: Wrap each cucumber in plastic wrap to minimize splattering. Place on a work surface and pound with a flat object (like a meat pounder) until cucumbers crack and are slightly flattened. Remove from plastic. Cut cucumbers in half; halve each side lengthwise. Slice into 1- to 1 1/2 -inch wide slices. Transfer to a strainer set over a bowl.
Step 2: Sprinkle cucumber with salt and sugar; mix until well combined. Refrigerate the bowl and strainer for 30 to 60 minutes so cucumber pieces can drain into the bowl.
Step 3: Place garlic, seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl; whisk together thoroughly.
Step 4: Transfer drained cucumbers into the bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.
Step 5: Place cucumbers in a serving bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Fun to make, refreshing, and all guests liked it! Followed the directions to a T. The flavors were well balanced and I found it was fine to let it sit a few hours in the fridge after making so I had time to finish the other dishes in the meal. The amount of dressing seemed skimpy at first but in fact, it was the perfect amount.
Easy recipe, but i'm used to more "zip" in the marinade, more vinegar and depth. Perhaps double the recipe for the sauce next time.
I love this recipe! It is light and tasty. Anyone who says it has no flavor did not use good garlic. I serve it with just about anything from Asian food to burgers. Easy to make and I have all the ingredients on hand.
I was so surprised how great this was!! Every ingredient and corresponding amount was spot on and complimented each other/the cucumbers perfectly! Who knew to smash cucumbers?? The hardest part was letting it marinate! Thanks again for another unique but flavorful dish Chef John! A keeper! Can’t wait for summer!
I first prepared this dish using a recipe that I transcribed from a Mandarin cooking website.The only difference that I would do would be to add a 1/4 cup of fresh roasted peanuts at the end and stir.
We loved the "Cucumber Sunomono" recipe from this site, so I was excited to try another asian inspired cucumber salad. Unfortunately, we were just not fans of the strong soy sauce flavor in this recipe. Perhaps it is just too much umami flavor for us.
This salad is so delicious. I have a plethora of English cukes form garden. It's always one of my inclusions after other salads and B&B pickles.
I loved this salad and so did my family. Did not change a thing, great the way it is...Love, Love, Love it.
This is one of my "go-to" recipes even when cucumbers are not in season in my area. Usually make it once a week - love it with grilled chicken, fish or a spicy asian dish. If I have them on hand, I add sliced radishes, for color and added flavor. Definitely a keeper for all I have shared the dish with.
To smash cucumbers, place them on a cutting board and gently press down with the flat side of a knife or use a rolling pin. This breaks them into irregular pieces, allowing the dressing to infuse.
✅Can I use English cucumbers for this salad?
Certainly! English cucumbers work well for Smashed Cucumber Salad. Remember to remove excess moisture by patting them dry after smashing for better dressing absorption.
✅What can I use as a substitute for soy sauce in the dressing?
Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as substitutes for soy sauce in the dressing for a gluten-free alternative in your Smashed Cucumber Salad.
✅Is it necessary to peel the cucumbers before smashing?
It's not necessary to peel the cucumbers before smashing, but you can if you prefer a smoother texture. Leaving the skin on adds extra crunch and visual appeal to the salad.
✅Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Certainly! Smashed Cucumber Salad can be made ahead. However, for the best texture, add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch of the cucumbers.
✅What's a good protein pairing for this salad?
Grilled meat, such as chicken or beef, and shrimp are excellent protein pairings for Smashed Cucumber Salad. The fresh and zesty flavors complement grilled dishes perfectly.
✅Can I add extra heat to the dressing?
Absolutely! Adjust the spice level by adding extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for a bolder kick in your Smashed Cucumber Salad.
✅What are some creative garnishes for the salad?
Consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or thinly sliced red chili for added flavor and a visually appealing touch to your Smashed Cucumber Salad.
✅Is there a low-sodium alternative for the soy sauce?
Certainly! Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or use a combination of water and reduced-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content in your Smashed Cucumber Salad.
