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Fresh Smashed Cucumber Salad Easy Recipe with Sesame Ginger Dressing

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A quick and refreshing smashed cucumber salad with a zingy sesame ginger dressing, perfect for warm weather and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (about 500g / 1.1 lbs), washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • A handful of fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the cucumber ends. If not using English cucumbers, peel to avoid bitterness. Cut each cucumber into 2-3 inch sections for easier smashing. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Place each cucumber piece flat on the cutting board and gently smash with a rolling pin or meat mallet until the skin cracks and the cucumber splits but remains roughly chunky. (5 minutes)
  3. Roughly chop the smashed cucumber chunks into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Sprinkle kosher salt over the cucumbers and toss well. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  5. While cucumbers rest, whisk together toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. (5 minutes)
  6. After resting, gently drain off any liquid from the cucumbers but keep the salty flavor. Toss cucumbers again to distribute salt evenly.
  7. Pour the dressing over cucumbers and toss until each piece is coated. Add chopped cilantro or green onions if using, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
  8. Chill the salad in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

If salad is too salty after resting, rinse cucumbers briefly under cold water and drain well before dressing. Smash cucumbers just enough to crack skin without turning mushy. Use tamari for gluten-free and maple syrup for vegan option instead of honey. Prepare cucumbers and dressing separately if making ahead to keep cucumbers crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, sesame ginger dressing, quick cucumber salad, easy side dish, gluten-free salad, vegan cucumber salad

Find it online: https://piperplate.com/fresh-smashed-cucumber-salad-easy-recipe-with-sesame-ginger-dressing/