Name: Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 English cucumbers; 1/2 tbsp white sugar; 1/2 tbsp salt (for cucumbers); 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil; 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 garlic cloves, grated; 1/2 tsp salt (for dressing); Red pepper flakes, to taste; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Introduction

Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for warm days or as a light appetizer. With a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with texture.

The image shows a white bowl filled with a cucumber salad made of chunky, unevenly cut cucumber pieces in bright green shades. The cucumber pieces are coated in a light brown soy-based sauce, giving a slightly shiny look. White sesame seeds are sprinkled generously over the cucumbers, adding a speckled texture. The cucumbers appear fresh and crisp, with some pieces showing a bit of red chili flakes mixed in. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and a small portion of soy sauce is visible in the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers
1/2 tablespoon white sugar
1/2 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise. Use a heavy kitchen object, like a meat mallet, to smash them lightly, then chop into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Toss the cucumber pieces with 1/2 tablespoon sugar and 1/2 tablespoon salt. Place them in a colander set over a bowl and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to drain excess liquid.
Step 3: While the cucumbers chill, mix together soy sauce, honey, sesame or olive oil, grated ginger, grated garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to make the dressing.
Step 4: Remove the cucumbers from the fridge. Combine with the dressing in a large bowl and mix well. Add red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
Step 5: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately for a crisp texture, or chill briefly for a cooler salad.

Tips & Variations

Use Japanese or Persian cucumbers as a nice alternative for an even crisper bite.
Add a splash of rice vinegar for extra tanginess.
For a nutty aroma, toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them on top.
If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.
Adjust the sweetness by using more or less honey depending on your taste.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that cucumbers may release more liquid over time, so drain excess moisture before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled, as reheating is not recommended for this dish.

How to Serve

The dish shows a white bowl filled with several chunks of cucumber that are bright green with a glossy surface, cut into irregular bite-sized pieces. The cucumbers appear coated in a light, yellowish dressing and sprinkled generously with small white sesame seeds. There are tiny red chili flakes scattered across the cucumbers, adding small touches of red color. The bowl rests on a smooth white marbled surface. The photo is a close-up shot, capturing the fresh texture and colors of the cucumbers clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but English cucumbers tend to be less watery and have fewer seeds, which results in a crisper salad with less excess liquid.

How spicy is this salad?

The heat comes from red pepper flakes added to taste. You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or less to suit your preference.