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Fresh Asian Smashed Cucumber Salad with Chili Crisp Dressing

fresh asian smashed cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick and easy Asian-inspired smashed cucumber salad featuring a spicy, nutty chili crisp and sesame dressing. Perfectly refreshing with a crunchy texture and a flavorful kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3 small Kirby cucumbers
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp (e.g., Fly By Jing or Lao Gan Ma)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free/soy-free)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry cucumbers. Trim ends. Using a knife or rolling pin, gently smash each cucumber until it cracks and breaks into chunks about 2 to 3 inches long, bruising but not mushing them (about 3 minutes).
  2. Break smashed cucumbers into bite-sized chunks if needed and place in a mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together chili crisp, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Add sugar if desired to balance acidity (about 2 minutes).
  4. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Pour dressing over smashed cucumbers. Add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat.
  6. Let salad rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Optionally chill in fridge for 10-15 minutes for a cooler salad.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid a watery salad. Use toasted sesame oil for best flavor. Let salad rest before serving to meld flavors. Drain excess liquid if cucumbers release too much water. Chili crisp brands vary in heat and texture; choose a quality brand for best results. Can substitute chili oil with fried shallots if needed.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/fresh-asian-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-5-minute-chili-crisp-dressing/