This Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic Soy Dressing is one of those dishes that I crave when I want something bold, crunchy, and flavor-packed.
It’s incredibly easy to make, but the combination of smashed cucumber texture with garlicky, umami-rich soy dressing makes it taste like something you’d order from your favorite Asian restaurant.
The smashing technique lets the cucumbers absorb every drop of the punchy dressing, turning this salad into a totally addictive side dish.
The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a perfect side dish for any meal or a light snack on its own.
Recipe Highlights
Smashed cucumber salad might be simple, but it’s far from boring. By smashing the cucumbers instead of slicing them, you create jagged edges and nooks that soak up the dressing like a sponge.
The garlic soy dressing has the perfect balance of salty, tangy, savory, and spicy flavors.
- Big flavor with minimal ingredients
. - Satisfying crunchy texture
. - Ready in just 15 minutes
. - Vegan and gluten-free adaptable
. - Great as a side or snack
Ingredient Notes
- Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal. Smashing them draws out excess water and enhances texture.
. - Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds strong flavor and aroma.
. - Soy Sauce: Provides umami and a rich, salty flavor. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
. - Rice Vinegar: Adds tang and balances the saltiness.
. - Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil gives depth and a nutty note.
. - Chili Flakes: Adds a hint of heat; adjust to your preference.
. - Sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity.
. - Salt: Used to draw moisture from cucumbers and season the dish.
. - Scallions & Sesame Seeds (optional): Great for garnish and added texture.
How to Make My Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic Soy Dressing
- Prep the cucumbers: Wash and trim ends. Cut cucumbers into 3- to 4-inch sections. Smash each section gently with the side of a chef’s knife or rolling pin until cracked.
. - Tear and salt: Tear the smashed pieces into bite-sized chunks. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to release moisture.
. - Make the dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, chili flakes, and sugar.
. - Drain cucumbers: Pat the salted cucumber chunks dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.
. - Toss and marinate: Place cucumbers in a bowl, pour dressing over the top, and toss to coat. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.
. - Garnish: Top with sesame seeds and sliced scallions if desired.
Quick and Flavorful Smashed Cucumber Salad
This smashed cucumber salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, featuring smashed and chopped English cucumber that shines under a savory garlic soy dressing.
The combination of kosher salt, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil creates a refreshing base that is both light and satisfying.
With minced garlic and a hint of red chili flakes, this dish offers a subtle kick that enhances the overall experience.
The addition of sugar balances the flavors, making it a perfect side dish or a light snack. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes, which makes it an ideal choice for busy days.
Preparation Steps for a Refreshing Salad
Preparing this salad is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by washing the cucumbers and cutting off the ends.
Using the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin, smash the cucumbers until they crack open while remaining in large pieces.
This technique allows the dressing to seep into the cucumbers, maximizing flavor.
Once the cucumbers are smashed, sprinkle them with kosher salt and let them sit for about five minutes.
This step draws out excess moisture, ensuring that the salad remains crisp and refreshing.
Creating the Flavorful Dressing
The dressing is where the magic happens. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, red chili flakes, and sugar until well combined.
This mixture brings together a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet notes that perfectly complement the cucumbers.
Once the dressing is ready, drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers and add them to the bowl with the dressing.
Toss gently to ensure that each piece is evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
To elevate the presentation, garnish the salad with sliced scallions and sesame seeds. These toppings not only add a pop of color but also contribute additional flavor and texture.
The vibrant green of the scallions and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds make this dish visually appealing.
Serving this salad immediately is recommended, but allowing it to chill for a short time can enhance the flavors even further.
The rustic wooden table background adds to the fresh and appetizing look of the dish, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Serve this salad with grilled meats, dumplings, stir-fry, or noodles. It makes a great refreshing contrast to heavier dishes or fried foods.
You can even enjoy it on its own as a crunchy snack.
Nutritional Benefits of the Salad
This smashed cucumber salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. With only 70 calories per serving, it’s a light option that fits well into various dietary preferences.
The salad contains healthy fats from the sesame oil and provides a good source of hydration thanks to the cucumbers.
Each serving offers a balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, this salad is a guilt-free choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Your Salad
This smashed cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled meats, stir-fries, or even as a refreshing side to a spicy Asian dish.
The lightness of the salad balances heavier meals, making it a versatile addition to your dining table.
Consider serving it alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a standalone snack.
The vibrant flavors and textures make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners at home.
Tips for the Best Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic Soy Dressing
Don’t skip the salting and draining step—it prevents the salad from becoming watery and intensifies the flavor.
Use fresh garlic for the boldest results. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving to maintain crunch.
For extra heat, add a dash of chili oil.
Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic Soy Dressing
Course: Side Dish / SaladCuisine: Chinese-Inspired / Asian FusionDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes70
kcalThis smashed cucumber salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, with crisp cucumbers and a savory dressing that brings everything together. The dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
3 cups English or Persian cucumbers (about 2 large), smashed and chopped
1 teaspoon kosher salt (for salting cucumbers)
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (or to taste)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon sliced scallions (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Wash cucumbers and trim ends.
- Cut cucumbers into 3- to 4-inch pieces. Place each piece under the flat side of a large knife and press gently to crack and flatten.
- Tear smashed cucumber into rough bite-sized chunks.
- Place in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, chili flakes, and sugar.
- Add cucumbers to a mixing bowl and pour the dressing over.
- Toss well and let sit for 10–15 minutes to marinate.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a dash of chili crisp or hot sesame oil.
- If you like a more acidic bite, increase the rice vinegar slightly.
- This salad also works great with thinly sliced radish or shredded carrot for extra crunch.
Storage of Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will soften but retain good flavor. Do not freeze.
