Smashed Cucumber Garlic Chili (Printable Version)

Crisp cucumbers mingled with garlic chili oil and tangy dressing for a vibrant, crunchy experience.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large English cucumbers
02 - 2 scallions, finely sliced
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

→ Garlic Chili Oil

04 - 3 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or grapeseed)
05 - 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
06 - 1 to 2 teaspoons red chili flakes

→ Dressing

07 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
09 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
10 - 1 teaspoon sugar
11 - 0.5 teaspoon salt

→ Garnish

12 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

# Directions:

01 - Wash and trim the cucumbers. Cut them in half lengthwise, then gently smash each half with the side of a chef's knife until they crack open. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
02 - Place cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with 0.5 teaspoon salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
03 - Heat neutral oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until just golden, approximately 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in chili flakes. Allow to cool.
04 - Pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
05 - In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce or tamari, toasted sesame oil, and sugar until sugar dissolves completely.
06 - Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Add scallions and toss gently to coat evenly.
07 - Drizzle with the cooled garlic chili oil and toss lightly.
08 - Top with cilantro if using and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately for crisp texture, or chill for 10 to 15 minutes for a colder salad.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Crunchy smashed cucumbers provide a unique texture that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
  • The garlicky chili oil adds a gentle heat and depth of flavor without overwhelming the palate.
  • The tangy rice vinegar dressing perfectly balances the spice and freshness.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
  • Vegan and gluten-free, suitable for many dietary preferences.
02 -
  • Use paper towels to thoroughly pat dry the cucumbers after salting to avoid a watery salad.
  • Make the garlic chili oil first and let it cool completely before drizzling to prevent wilting fresh ingredients.
  • Adjust the amount of red chili flakes based on your preferred spice level for a perfectly balanced heat.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crunch, or chill briefly to enhance melding of flavors and a cooler salad.
  • Always check soy sauce labels to ensure gluten-free status if needed.
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