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A vibrant bowl of Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad garnished with fresh chili slices and sesame seeds served as a refreshing side dish.

Spicy Asian Smashed Cucumber Salad

This vibrant Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad is the ultimate 5-minute side dish, perfectly balancing cool, refreshing cucumber crunch with a fiery, umami-rich dressing. By using the 'smashed' technique, the cucumbers soak up the garlicky, spicy sauce, making every bite an addictive flavor explosion.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large English or Persian cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili oil or chili crisp
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Heavy rolling pin or flat-sided chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Kitchen towel
  • Colander
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Place the cucumbers on a sturdy cutting board and cover them with a kitchen towel to prevent splattering.
  2. Using a heavy rolling pin or the flat side of a chef's knife, firmly smash the cucumbers until they crack and split open.
  3. Remove the towel and cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized chunks.
  4. Transfer the cucumber chunks to a colander, sprinkle with the kosher salt, and toss to coat. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain.
  5. While the cucumbers drain, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, chili oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
  6. Pat the drained cucumber chunks dry with a paper towel to ensure the dressing adheres properly.
  7. Place the cucumbers in a large mixing bowl, pour the dressing over them, and toss thoroughly until every piece is well-coated.
  8. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best texture, serve this salad immediately after preparation as the salt will continue to draw moisture out over time. If you prefer extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or increase the chili crisp. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours, though note that the texture will soften slightly.