Looking for a crisp, refreshing side dish that’ll make your taste buds dance? This Chinese cucumber salad is your answer! I love Asian cuisine, so I’m excited to share this simple and amazing recipe that’s a staple in my kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad
There’s something magical about the way this salad combines the cool crunch of cucumbers with a punchy, savory dressing. The best part? You can whip it up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for your favorite stir fry.
Picking the Perfect Cucumbers
Let’s talk cucumbers – they’re the star of the show! You’ve got several options:
* English cucumbers are my go-to choice because they’re less watery and have thinner skin
* Persian cucumbers work beautifully too, offering a sweet, crisp bite
* Japanese cucumbers are another excellent option with their firm texture
* Mini cucumbers can add a fun twist to your presentation
The Secret to Perfect Texture
Here’s a game-changing tip: smashing the cucumbers instead of just slicing them! Grab your cutting board and give those cucumbers a gentle smack with the flat side of your knife. This technique helps the cucumbers soak up more of that amazing dressing.
Smash the ingredients and then remove the excess water – this step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Just sprinkle some salt over your smashed cucumbers and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels.
Simple Yet Flavorful Ingredients
The dressing is where the magic happens! Here’s what you’ll need:
* Rice vinegar for that perfect tangy kick
* Light soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free if needed) –Complete Guide to Gluten-Free Asian Sauces.
* A sprinkle of chili flakes for heat
* Homemade chili oil for extra depth (store-bought works too!)
* Toasted sesame seeds for nutty crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by smashing your cucumbers on a cutting board using the flat side of your knife
2. Cut them into bite-sized chunks at an angle
3. Salt them and let them release their excess water (about 10 minutes)
4. Meanwhile, whisk together your dressing: rice vinegar, light soy sauce, and a splash of homemade chili oil
5. Pat the cucumbers dry and toss them with your dressing
6. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chili flakes
Make It Your Own
This Chinese dish is incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili flakes. You can also:
* Add minced garlic for extra punch
* Throw in some chopped cilantro
* Mix in thinly sliced red onions
* Drizzle with extra chili oil for more heat
Storage Tips
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The cucumbers might release more water, but a quick drain and toss will refresh the dish.
Perfect Pairings
This Chinese cucumber salad pairs beautifully with:
* Your favorite stir fry –15 Must-Try Chinese Stir Fry Recipes
* Grilled meats
* Steamed rice
* Noodle dishes
Health Benefits
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also:
* Low in calories
* Naturally gluten-free (just check your soy sauce)
* Packed with hydrating cucumbers
* Rich in vitamins and minerals
Shopping Tips
You can find most ingredients at your regular grocery store, but Asian markets often have the best cucumbers and specialty items. Look for firm, bright green cucumbers without any soft spots.
Note: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
This Chinese cucumber salad is more than just a side dish – it’s a refreshing adventure for your taste buds that comes together in just 20 minutes. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become your new favorite way to enjoy cucumbers!
Have you tried making Chinese smashed cucumber salad before? What’s your favorite way to serve it? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Recipe prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 as a side dish