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Crushed Cucumber Salad with Spicy Garlic-Soy Dressing

A delightful summer side dish featuring smashed cucumbers with a flavorful garlic-soy dressing. It pairs perfectly with grilled meat or shrimp.

PT75M
75 min
easy
easy
6
6
29kcal
calories
4g
carbohydrates
1g
fat
1g
fiber
1g
protein
530mg
sodium
2g
sugar

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers
1.5 tsp kosher salt (plus more as needed)
1 tsp white sugar
2 cloves garlic, finely crushed
2 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
red pepper flakes, to taste
2 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1
Wrap each cucumber in plastic wrap to prevent splattering. Pound the cucumbers with a flat object until they crack and flatten slightly. Unwrap and halve them lengthwise, then slice into 1- to 1 1/2-inch wide pieces. Place the slices in a strainer over a bowl.
Step 2
Sprinkle the cucumbers with salt and sugar, mixing well. Refrigerate the bowl and strainer for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the cucumbers to drain.
Step 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the garlic, seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4
Transfer the drained cucumbers into the bowl with the dressing, tossing to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5
Serve the cucumbers in a bowl, sprinkled with sesame seeds.