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Fresh Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Soy Ginger Sesame Dressing

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A refreshing smashed cucumber salad with a bold soy ginger sesame dressing that soaks into the cucumbers for a crunchy, flavorful side dish perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large English cucumbers (about 2 pounds / 900 g), washed and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and trim off both ends.
  2. Place one cucumber at a time on a cutting board. Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, gently but firmly smash the cucumber lengthwise until it cracks and splits, about 1-2 minutes per cucumber.
  3. Break the smashed cucumber into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches long. Transfer to a large bowl.
  4. Sprinkle kosher salt over the cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  5. Pour off the excess liquid carefully, keeping the cucumbers moist but not soggy.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic (if using), and honey or maple syrup until well combined.
  7. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
  8. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving. Serve fresh or chill for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers; they should crack but not turn mushy. Salt cucumbers and let them rest to draw out moisture and keep crunch. Drain excess liquid before dressing to avoid sogginess. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes for best flavor. Dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Best eaten fresh or within 24 hours stored in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, cucumber salad, soy ginger dressing, sesame dressing, easy cucumber salad, healthy side dish, gluten-free cucumber salad, vegan cucumber salad

Find it online: https://sunnysavory.com/fresh-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-soy-ginger-sesame-dressing/