Description
A refreshing and flavorful Asian-inspired smashed cucumber salad with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Perfect as a side dish or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large fresh cucumbers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
- 2 stalks scallions, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Cucumbers – Slice cucumbers lengthwise into quarters and smash them lightly with the flat side of a knife. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Make Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil (if using).
- Step 3: Drain Cucumbers – Drain excess water from cucumbers after 10 minutes to prevent watery salad.
- Step 4: Combine – In a large mixing bowl, combine smashed cucumbers and dressing. Toss in chopped scallions for garnish.
- Step 5: Serve – Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Choose firm, fresh cucumbers without soft spots for the best texture and crunch in your finished salad
- Don’t smash too aggressively – gentle pressure creates perfect irregular pieces without turning cucumbers to mush
- Taste the dressing before adding and adjust soy sauce or vinegar to match your personal preference
- Add scallions just before serving to maintain their bright color and fresh crunch throughout the dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 45 calories
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, refreshing salad, side dish, healthy recipe