Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic
Crisp cucumbers are smashed to create jagged edges that absorb a bold garlic, black vinegar, and chili oil dressing in this refreshing cold appetizer or side.
Ingredients
- 2 medium English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp Chinese black vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tsp chili oil (or chili crisp)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
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1
Place 2 medium English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers) on a cutting board. Using the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin, smash each cucumber until it cracks and splits. Cut into rough 1-inch pieces.
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2
Transfer cucumber pieces to a colander. Toss with 1 tsp kosher salt and let drain in the sink for 5-10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
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3
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cloves minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp Chinese black vinegar (or rice vinegar), 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tsp toasted sesame oil, 2 tsp chili oil (or chili crisp), and 1 tsp granulated sugar.
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4
Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl and toss well to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning.
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5
Transfer to a serving plate and top with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.