Chinese Spicy Smashed Cucumber (Print Version)

Crisp smashed cucumbers in a zesty garlic soy dressing with sesame oil and chili flakes for bold flavor.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers (about 1.1 lb), ends trimmed
02 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced

→ Dressing

03 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
04 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
06 - 1 to 2 teaspoons chili flakes, adjusted to taste
07 - 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
08 - 1 teaspoon sugar
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
11 - Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Place the cucumbers on a cutting board and gently smash with the flat side of a knife until they crack and split. Tear or cut into bite-sized chunks.
02 - Transfer the smashed cucumbers to a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain and gently pat dry with paper towels.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, chili flakes, minced garlic, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
04 - Add the drained cucumbers and sliced scallions to the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat evenly with the dressing.
05 - Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 10 to 15 minutes to enhance flavors.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's the kind of salad that actually tastes better the moment you finish making it, not something that needs to sit around.
  • The contrast between crispy, cool cucumber and that spicy garlicky coating is addictive in the best way.
  • You can have it ready faster than it takes to order takeout, yet it feels like you're cooking something intentional.
02 -
  • The salting step isn't optional—it removes excess water that would dilute the dressing and make everything bland.
  • Don't skip the drying step with paper towels; wet cucumbers will dilute everything and make the whole salad watery.
  • If you're making this ahead, drain any liquid that pools at the bottom before serving, or the bottom will be soggy.
03 -
  • Make the dressing while the cucumbers are sitting and draining so everything comes together perfectly without waiting.
  • If your cucumbers are watery varieties, you can double the salt-and-drain step for even crispier results.
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