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Spicy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Sesame Oil

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A quick and refreshing spicy smashed cucumber salad with toasted sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes that delivers a perfect balance of heat and crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3 Persian cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons red chili flakes, adjusted to taste
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends of the cucumbers. Peeling is optional if using English cucumbers.
  2. Place a cucumber on the cutting board and smash it firmly with the back of a wooden spoon or rolling pin until it splits and cracks. Repeat for all cucumbers.
  3. Roughly chop the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches.
  4. Optional: Place chopped cucumbers in a colander over the sink for 5 minutes to drain excess liquid.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, red chili flakes, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture is smooth.
  6. Add the chopped cucumbers to the dressing and toss well to coat evenly.
  7. Fold in chopped cilantro or scallions if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid mushiness; draining excess water helps keep salad crisp. Use good quality toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Salad can be served immediately but tastes better after chilling 10-15 minutes. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy smashed cucumber salad, sesame oil salad, quick cucumber salad, easy cucumber recipe, Asian cucumber salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad

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