Four Ways to Enjoy Cucumber Salads

This crunchy and flavorful smashed cucumber salad is packed with savory, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

6 mini cucumbers

1/2 teaspoon salt (to drain water)

For the Dressing:

2 tablespoons regular soy sauce

1.5 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds

1 tablespoon white granulated sugar

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili oil

Instructions:

Slice the ends off the mini cucumbers and smash them with the side of a knife until they are slightly flattened and broken in the center.

Slice the smashed cucumbers into 2-cm thick diagonal strips.

Transfer the sliced cucumbers to a bowl, add salt, and massage the salt into the cucumbers. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess liquid, then discard the liquid.

Rinse the cucumbers under cold running water to remove excess salt.

Strain the cucumbers, removing as much water as possible.

Season the cucumbers with the dressing ingredients and toss well. Serve and enjoy!

These four cucumber salads offer a variety of flavors and textures—from the light and tangy Asian salad to the creamy, comforting version, and the bold, spicy Korean and smashed cucumber variations. Each one provides a refreshing, healthy addition to any meal!