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Quick Spicy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe with Sesame Chili Oil – Easy and Perfect for Summer

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A quick and flavorful smashed cucumber salad with a spicy, nutty sesame chili oil dressing. Perfect for summer, this salad is fresh, crunchy, and ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 3 small Persian cucumbers), washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons sesame chili oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional garnishes: thinly sliced scallions or fresh cilantro leaves
  • Optional garnishes: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers and trim off the ends. Cut into roughly 2-inch pieces.
  2. Place cucumber pieces in a large bowl. Using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or flat side of a knife, gently press down on each piece until they crack open and split slightly, about 5 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt over the smashed cucumbers and toss to combine. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  4. While cucumbers rest, combine sesame chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar or honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake until well mixed.
  5. After 10 minutes, gently drain excess liquid from cucumbers, keeping some moisture.
  6. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, add sliced scallions or cilantro if using, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  8. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a crisp, cold salad.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid sogginess. Salt cucumbers to draw out water but drain excess liquid before dressing. Use fresh minced garlic for best flavor. Toast sesame seeds for extra nuttiness. Serve within a couple of hours for best texture. Can substitute tamari for soy sauce to make gluten-free. Adjust heat by adding fresh chilies or hot sauce if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy cucumber salad, smashed cucumber salad, sesame chili oil, summer salad, quick cucumber salad, easy side dish, vegan salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/quick-spicy-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-sesame-chili-oil-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/