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Fresh Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Sesame Ginger Dressing

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A light, refreshing smashed cucumber salad with a bright, tangy sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for warm weather, this simple recipe is quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium English cucumbers (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g), washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 small chili pepper, finely sliced

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers. Cut off the ends, then slice them lengthwise into quarters (about 1/2 inch / 1.3 cm thickness). Place the cucumber quarters in a large bowl and sprinkle with the kosher salt. Toss gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess water.
  2. After the resting period, use a mortar and pestle, rolling pin, or the flat side of a chef’s knife to gently smash each cucumber piece. The goal is to bruise and slightly flatten the cucumbers without turning them to mush.
  3. Pour off any liquid released from the cucumbers, but don’t rinse.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake well until honey is fully dissolved and the dressing is emulsified.
  5. Pour the dressing over the smashed cucumbers. Toss gently to coat every piece. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top, and if desired, add thin slices of fresh chili pepper. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip the salting step to draw out moisture and keep cucumbers crisp. Smash cucumbers gently to avoid mushiness. Fresh ginger is preferred for best flavor. Dressing can be made ahead and stored up to a week in the fridge. Toast sesame seeds before garnishing for enhanced flavor. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Nutrition

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

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