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For this fresh and crunchy salad, you will need: - 2 large cucumbers - 1 teaspoon salt These cucumbers form the base of your dish. They give it a crisp texture and refreshing taste. To create the dressing, gather these items: - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 1 tablespoon sugar - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to taste) This dressing adds flavor and a hint of spice. The balance of sweet and savory makes the salad shine. For a lovely finish, consider these toppings: - 2 green onions, chopped - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish These garnishes not only enhance the look but also boost the taste. They add crunch and freshness, making each bite special. If you want to explore the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions! First, wash the cucumbers under cold water. This step ensures they are clean. Next, cut off both ends of each cucumber. Place the cucumbers on a cutting board. Use the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin to smash them. Smash until they break but still hold their shape. This technique makes them crunchy and fun to eat. After smashing, cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Place these pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the cucumbers. Toss gently so they are well coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. While the cucumbers sit, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil. Whisk the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust the chili oil to your liking. This dressing will add great flavor to your salad. After 10 minutes, drain any excess water from the cucumbers. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss well. Next, add chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Toss again to mix everything together. Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes. This wait helps the flavors blend nicely. Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. The salad is now ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided above. When picking cucumbers, look for ones that are firm and shiny. Choose cucumbers that are dark green, without blemishes or soft spots. The size also matters; medium-sized cucumbers usually taste better. Smaller cucumbers can be sweeter and crunchier. Don't forget to smell the cucumber! A fresh scent shows that it's ripe and ready to eat. To smash cucumbers, place them on a cutting board. Use a knife or rolling pin to apply even pressure. Smash each cucumber until it cracks but stays in pieces. This method helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing well. It also gives them a fun texture. Don't overdo it, or you'll end up with mush! To make your salad pop, let the cucumbers sit with salt for about 10 minutes. This step draws out extra water and intensifies the flavor. When mixing the dressing, whisk the ingredients well to blend them completely. If you want extra spice, add more chili oil or fresh garlic. For added crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad. {{image_2}} For a kick in your smashed cucumber salad, add more heat. Use 2 teaspoons of chili oil instead of 1. You can also add sliced fresh chili peppers. The extra spice brings a new level of excitement. Pairing the cool cucumbers with heat makes a great combo. You can make your salad even better by adding other veggies. Try diced bell peppers for crunch and color. Carrots also work well; they add sweetness. You might also add radishes for a peppery bite. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Switch up the dressing for new flavors. Try adding lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a zesty twist. You can also use peanut sauce for a nutty flavor. A splash of fish sauce adds depth. Experiment with what you like most. Each change can create a whole new dish. Try these variations with the full recipe and enjoy your culinary journey! Use a glass container with a tight lid. This keeps the salad fresh and crisp. You can also use a plastic container, but glass is better for flavor. Smashed Cucumber Salad lasts about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose its crunch. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. To refresh leftovers, add a splash of rice vinegar. This brightens the flavors and makes it taste fresh again. If the cucumbers are too soft, consider mixing in some fresh ones. Enjoy your salad with a little extra crunch! Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water. They help keep you hydrated. They also contain vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and potassium. Cucumbers may aid digestion due to their fiber content. Eating cucumbers can also support skin health. Their antioxidants help fight free radicals in your body. Regularly adding cucumbers to your meals is a smart choice for your health. Yes, you can prepare Smashed Cucumber Salad ahead of time. Make the salad up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge. However, it's best to add the dressing right before serving. This keeps the cucumbers crunchy. If you mix everything too early, the cucumbers may get soggy. Smashed Cucumber Salad pairs well with many dishes. It’s great with grilled meats like chicken or fish. You can also serve it with rice or noodles for a light meal. For a vegetarian option, try it with tofu or tempeh. This salad also makes a tasty side for picnics and barbecues. Check out the full recipe for ideas on how to enjoy it! Smashed cucumber salad is simple and fresh. We explored its main ingredients, tasty dressings, and fun toppings. You learned how to prepare the cucumbers and mix everything together. I shared tips to pick fresh cucumbers and elevate flavor. We also discussed variations to make it your own. Store it right to keep it fresh longer. This salad is easy to customize and share. Try it out and enjoy a healthy, tasty dish!

Smashed Cucumber Salad

Enjoy a refreshing twist on your summer salads with this Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad recipe! Made with simple ingredients like cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this dish is not just easy to prepare, but bursting with flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a light snack, it combines crunch and spice that everyone will love. Click through to discover how to make this delightful salad and impress your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon sugar

1 garlic clove, minced

1 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to taste)

2 green onions, chopped

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly, then cut off both ends.

    Place each cucumber on a large cutting board and, using the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin, smash the cucumbers until they break apart but still hold their shape.

      Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a large bowl.

        Sprinkle the salt over the cucumbers, tossing gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture.

          In a separate small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chili oil to create the dressing. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.

            After 10 minutes, drain any excess water from the cucumbers.

              Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss well to combine.

                Add chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds to the bowl, tossing gently once more.

                  Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

                    Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves just before serving.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a vibrant bowl, adding additional cilantro on top and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an appealing finish.