Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of Smacked Cucumber Salad, a delightful and refreshing dish that embodies the essence of Chinese dining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large English cucumbers or 4 Persian cucumbers
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili oil (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra for salting cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the cucumbers under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, pat them dry thoroughly. This step is crucial as excess moisture can dilute the dressing later on. Place the cucumbers on your cutting board and using the flat side of your knife or a rolling pin, gently smack them until they crack. This technique helps release the cucumbers’ juices and prepares them to soak up the flavors of the dressing.
- After smacking the cucumbers, chop them into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the chopped cucumbers into a bowl and sprinkle them generously with salt. The salting process draws out moisture from the cucumbers, enhancing their natural crunch and flavor. Allow the salted cucumbers to sit for about 10 minutes. After this time, drain off the excess liquid that has accumulated in the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar, and chili oil. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. This dressing will complement the cucumbers beautifully, adding a savory and slightly spicy kick. Feel free to taste the dressing and adjust the chili oil, making it as mild or spicy as you prefer.
- Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the drained cucumbers. Using a spatula or tongs, carefully toss the cucumbers in the dressing until they are evenly coated. The combination of textures and flavors will create a delightful experience with each bite. For the best results, place the salad in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This time allows the cucumbers to soak up the flavors of the dressing, creating a harmonious balance.
- After chilling, remove the salad from the refrigerator. If desired, garnish the dish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor before serving. Present the salad in a beautiful bowl and enjoy it chilled. This Smacked Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days if you have any leftovers.
Notes
Always use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced versions lack vibrancy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Protein: 2 g