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Fresh Viral Smashed Cucumber Salad Easy Recipe with Soy Ginger Dressing

smashed cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick, fresh, and zingy smashed cucumber salad with a savory soy ginger dressing that is perfect for hot weather and easy to make with pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 3 regular cucumbers, peeled if waxed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (about 1-inch piece)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry cucumbers. Trim off the ends. Peel if using regular cucumbers. Slice each cucumber into roughly 2-inch segments.
  2. Place a cucumber segment on a cutting board and press down firmly with a heavy pan or mallet until it splits open and flattens slightly. Repeat with all segments.
  3. Toss smashed cucumbers with 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water, then gently squeeze out juice.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, and toasted sesame oil. Adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
  5. Pour dressing over drained cucumbers. Add chopped cilantro and thinly sliced red chili or red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Let salad sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to let flavors meld. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers; aim for jagged edges and varied sizes. Salt cucumbers to draw out water but avoid over-salting. Fresh ginger is preferred over ground or pre-minced. Let salad rest to meld flavors. Can be served chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days and drain excess liquid before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, soy ginger dressing, quick salad, easy cucumber salad, gluten-free cucumber salad, vegan salad, refreshing salad

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/fresh-viral-smashed-cucumber-salad-easy-recipe-with-soy-ginger-dressing/