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Crispy Asian Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Chili Crisp and Sesame

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A quick and easy crispy Asian smashed cucumber salad featuring bold flavors from chili crisp and toasted sesame oil, perfect for a refreshing and spicy side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers (about 14 oz / 400g)
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp (e.g., Lao Gan Ma brand)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: pinch of sugar or honey to balance heat

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim cucumbers: Rinse 2 medium English cucumbers and cut off the ends. No need to peel.
  2. Smash the cucumbers: Place each cucumber on a cutting board and gently but firmly press down with a rolling pin or bottle until it breaks open into chunks about 1 to 1.5 inches.
  3. Cut into bite-size pieces: Chop the smashed cucumbers into roughly equal pieces about 1 to 2 inches.
  4. Salt the cucumber chunks: Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
  5. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together chili crisp, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Drain excess liquid: Pour off any liquid released from the cucumbers after 10 minutes, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  7. Toss salad: Add the dressing to the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.
  8. Add fresh elements: Stir in thinly sliced green onions and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
  9. Chill or serve immediately: Eat right away for extra crunch or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Use a firm but gentle press when smashing cucumbers to avoid mushiness. Let salted cucumbers sit to release excess moisture and keep salad crisp. Adjust chili crisp amount to control heat. Use toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Salad can be served immediately or chilled for 15-20 minutes. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days; stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, chili crisp salad, sesame cucumber salad, quick cucumber salad, spicy cucumber salad, easy side dish

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-asian-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-chili-crisp-and-sesame/