Easy Sesame Ginger Cucumber Salad
This refreshing and vibrant cucumber salad is incredibly easy to make, featuring crisp smashed cucumbers tossed in a savory, tangy sesame ginger dressing. Perfect as a quick side dish or a light lunch, it's a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal, inspired by popular street food styles.
Ingredients
- 2 countEnglish Cucumbers
- 0.5 teaspoonSalt
- 3 tablespoonsRice Vinegar
- 2 tablespoonsSoy Sauce
- 1 tablespoonToasted Sesame Oil
- 1 tablespoonFresh Ginger, grated
- 1 cloveGarlic, minced
- 1 teaspoonGranulated Sugar
- 0.5 teaspoonRed Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoonToasted Sesame Seeds
- 2 stalksGreen Onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- 1
Wash the cucumbers. Using the flat side of a chef's knife or a meat mallet, gently but firmly smash each cucumber until it cracks open and looks slightly fractured. Cut the smashed cucumbers into irregular, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks). Place the cucumber pieces into a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess water. After resting, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
⏱ 20 min - 2
While the cucumbers are draining, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, granulated sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well combined.
⏱ 3 min - 3
Transfer the dried smashed cucumbers to a clean mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
⏱ 2 min - 4
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. Just before serving, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
⏱ 1 min