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Crispy Spicy Asian Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy and Perfect with Chili Crisp

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A quick and flavorful smashed cucumber salad featuring a spicy, savory chili crisp dressing that delivers a satisfying crunch and bold Asian flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp (e.g., Fly By Jing or Lao Gan Ma)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • A handful fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends off two large English cucumbers. Cut each cucumber into 2-3 inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Using a wooden pestle, rolling pin, or the side of a chef’s knife, gently but firmly smash each cucumber piece until it splits and breaks into jagged chunks, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Let the smashed cucumbers sit in a colander or sieve for 10 minutes to drain excess water.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, toasted sesame oil, and chili crisp. Adjust salt as needed.
  5. Return the drained cucumbers to the large bowl. Add minced garlic and pour the dressing over. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces.
  6. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or scallions.
  7. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Optionally refrigerate up to 30 minutes for a colder salad.

Notes

Drain cucumbers well after smashing to keep salad crispy. Use good quality chili crisp for best flavor and texture. Rest salad before serving to meld flavors. Refrigerate only briefly to maintain crunch. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce. For milder heat, reduce chili crisp or mix with chili oil.

Nutrition

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

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