Print

Flavorful Asian Smashed Cucumber Salad with Spicy Chili Oil

asian smashed cucumber salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy smashed cucumber salad with a spicy chili oil dressing that delivers a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any Asian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp chili oil (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Rinse and trim the ends of the cucumbers. Using a rolling pin or mortar and pestle, firmly smash each cucumber lengthwise until it cracks and splits open.
  2. Cut each smashed cucumber into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches long.
  3. Transfer cucumber pieces to a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  4. While cucumbers rest, combine minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, toasted sesame oil, and chili oil in a small bowl. Stir until sugar dissolves and ingredients blend.
  5. Drain most of the cucumber water, leaving a little for moisture.
  6. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Mix in sliced green onions and chopped cilantro if using.
  8. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid mushy texture. Let cucumbers sit with salt for 10 minutes to draw out water and keep salad crisp. Adjust chili oil amount to taste. For best crunch, toss cucumbers with dressing just before serving if making ahead. Homemade chili oil can be made by gently heating neutral oil with dried chili flakes, garlic, and sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, spicy chili oil, Asian cucumber salad, quick cucumber salad, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegan

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/flavorful-asian-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-spicy-chili-oil-easy-and-perfect/