Print

Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad Easy Spicy Sesame Crunch Recipe

crispy smashed cucumber salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A refreshing and crunchy cucumber salad with a spicy sesame dressing that balances heat and nutty richness, perfect for summer gatherings or a light side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil, adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: crushed roasted peanuts or cashews for extra crunch
  • Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends off the cucumbers. Using the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin, press down firmly to smash each cucumber until it cracks and splits but remains in one piece. Cut into roughly 2-inch chunks.
  2. Transfer the smashed cucumber pieces into a large bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and gently toss to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain any liquid.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and chili flakes or chili oil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Add the drained cucumbers back into the large bowl. Pour the dressing over them, add the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.
  6. If desired, sprinkle with crushed roasted peanuts or cashews and scatter fresh cilantro leaves on top. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not smash cucumbers too hard to avoid mushiness. Drain salted cucumbers well to keep salad crisp. Toast sesame seeds fresh for best flavor. Salad is best served fresh but can be chilled briefly. Store dressing separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, smashed cucumber, spicy sesame dressing, summer salad, crunchy salad, easy cucumber recipe, gluten-free, vegan option

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/crispy-smashed-cucumber-salad-easy-spicy-sesame-crunch-recipe/