Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad with Garlic and Chili Oil
This refreshing Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Enhanced with garlic and chili oil, it's an easy-to-make dish that offers a deliciously crunchy texture.
Equipment
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
- 1 small pan
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 tsp salt
Dressing
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Cut off the ends and use a knife or rolling pin to gently smash until they split. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the smashed cucumbers in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt, mix well, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Make the dressing
- In a small pan, heat the chili oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked garlic and chili oil with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Assemble the salad
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Toss well to ensure even coating. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Serving
- Serve the salad as a side dish or appetizer. Garnish with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if desired.
Storage
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Best consumed within 2 days for maximum freshness.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture. Adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your spice preference.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use sesame oil instead of chili oil for a milder flavor. Green onions can replace garlic for a different taste.
How to Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or nuts for added texture.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use sesame oil instead of chili oil for a milder flavor. Green onions can replace garlic for a different taste.
How to Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or nuts for added texture.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.