author’s note
The Internet Was Right About This One!
I’ll be honest, I didn’t think smashing cucumbers would make that big of a difference… until I kept seeing this salad everywhere on social media and finally had to try it.
The first time I made it, I was already testing a few cucumber salads, but this one completely stood out. The smashed cucumbers hold onto the dressing in a way sliced cucumbers just don’t. Every bite has flavor instead of that watered-down taste you sometimes get.
I adapted this recipe from Woks of Life and tweaked the dressing from my Asian Cucumber Salad. I’m obsessed with how this salad turned out!
Now it’s one of those recipes I make on repeat, especially when I need something quick that still feels a little different. And my kids love helping smash the cucumbers, so it’s become a fun kitchen moment too.
Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Tips or swaps |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers | Use English or Persian for best crunch and fewer seeds |
| Cilantro | Chop coarse for fresh flavor, or swap with parsley if needed |
| Green onions | Slice thin for mild flavor, or use basil instead |
| Rice vinegar | Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch |
| Sesame oil | Use toasted sesame oil for the best flavor |
| Soy sauce | Use low sodium so it doesn’t overpower |
| Ginger & garlic | Fresh works great, pastes keep it quick |
| Sugar | Adjust to taste or swap with honey |
How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad
- Wash Cucumbers: Clean and dry the cucumbers.
- Smash: Lightly smash the cucumbers until they crack open. Cut into small pieces.
- Make Dressing: In a jar, mix together all the dressing ingredients. Shake well.
- Mix Salad: In a big bowl, combine the cucumbers with cilantro and green onions.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to mix.
- Serve: Add chili oil or red pepper flakes if you like. Enjoy right away.
chelsea’s recipe tip
My Top Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Tips!
- Prep: Trim the ends, they can be bitter. Use a slicer for thin, even cuts. I use mine all the time for Au Gratin Potatoes.
- Freshness: Use the freshest cucumbers for the best flavor and crunch.
- Smashing Cucumbers: Smash until they crack but still hold their shape.
- Dressing: Make the dressing ahead and let it sit for better flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili oil or red pepper flakes to what you like. Start with a little and add more if needed.
Variations
This smashed cucumber salad recipe is super flexible. Here are a few easy ways to switch it up:
- Add crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch
- Drizzle with peanut sauce instead of the dressing for a creamy twist
- Toss in thin sliced radishes for extra bite
- Add shredded chicken for a quick meal
- Use chili crisp instead of flakes for more flavor
Storage
Store any leftover Smashed Cucumber Salad in a container in the fridge. For the best flavor and texture, eat on the same day.
Serve Smashed Cucumber Salad With:
Smashed Cucumber Salad
Video
Equipment
- Meat mallet see note 1
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cucumbers see note 2
- 1/4 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1-1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 3/4 teaspoon ginger paste
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2-1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- Chili oil or red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cucumbers. Chop the cilantro, and slice the green onions.
- Combine rice vinegar, salt, toasted sesame oil, ginger paste, garlic paste, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame seeds in a mason jar. Add the lid, and shake until combined.
- Place the flat side of a meat mallet against each cucumber on a cutting board. Lightly press with your other hand until the cucumber cracks open.
- Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-size pieces, about 1-inch in diameter.
- In a large bowl, mix the cut cucumbers with cilantro and green onions.
- Drizzle on the dressing and toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve with a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Best enjoyed the same day.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
