Get ready to transform your taste buds with the most addictive cucumber salad you've ever experienced! This Asian-inspired dish is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about cucumbers. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, this smashed cucumber salad is about to become your new obsession, guaranteed to impress everyone at your next meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Place cucumbers on a cutting board and using the flat side of a chef's knife or a meat mallet, gently smash the cucumbers to create cracks. This technique helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing more effectively.
- Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized, irregular pieces, maintaining the cracked texture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and chili flakes until the honey is completely dissolved and ingredients are well combined.
- Add the smashed cucumber pieces to the dressing and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Let the cucumber salad marinate for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the cucumber salad to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Smashing Technique: The key to this recipe is the smashing technique. Use the flat side of a chef's knife or a meat mallet, and apply gentle pressure to create natural cracks. This isn't just for show – it helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing more deeply.
- Cucumber Selection: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best texture. English or Persian cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and a crunchier profile.
- Dressing Harmony: Whisk the dressing ingredients thoroughly to ensure the honey is completely dissolved, creating a smooth and well-integrated flavor profile.
- Marination Magic: Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to soak up the delicious dressing and intensifies the overall taste.
- Garnish Game: Don't skip the sesame seeds and green onions – they add crucial texture and visual appeal to the dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled for the most refreshing experience, and consider it as a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a standalone appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 291kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
