This Chinese-style smashed cucumber salad is a refreshing and flavourful side dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with aromatic spices. With sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a drizzle of chilli oil, this dish combines crunch with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavours. Serve it as a light appetiser or a delicious accompaniment to your main meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole cucumber
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated garlic
• 2 tsp grated ginger
• Finely chopped coriander (optional)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chilli oil, for drizzle

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber

• Chop off both ends of the cucumber.
• Lay the cucumber flat on a clean tea towel to minimise splatter, and use the flat side of a cleaver, large chef’s knife, or rolling pin to smack the cucumber until it splits apart.
• Slice the cucumber diagonally into bite-sized chunks and place them in a bowl.

Step 2: Lightly Pickle the Cucumber

• Season the cucumber chunks with rice vinegar, salt, and sugar. Toss well and leave to pickle for at least 15 minutes. (This step can be done up to a day in advance for enhanced flavour.)

Step 3: Create the Flavourful Dressing

• Drain the liquid from the cucumber.
• Add light soy sauce, sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, and chopped coriander to the cucumber. Mix well to coat.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds and finish with a drizzle of chilli oil for a spicy kick.
• Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetiser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Light and Refreshing: Perfect for hot days or to balance heavier dishes.
• Versatile: Works as a side dish, starter, or part of a larger meal spread.

Tips for Success

• Use an English cucumber for a milder flavour and fewer seeds.
• Adjust the amount of chilli oil to suit your spice tolerance.
• Add a splash of Chinese black vinegar for extra depth of flavour.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with fried rice, dumplings, or grilled meat for a complete meal.
• Use leftovers as a topping for noodle bowls or wraps.

This Chinese smashed cucumber salad is a simple yet flavour-packed dish that complements a variety of meals. With its crunchy texture, aromatic spices, and vibrant dressing, it’s sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and elevate your side dish game today!