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Fresh Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe with Chili Crisp and Black Sesame

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A quick and easy refreshing cucumber salad featuring smashed cucumbers, spicy chili crisp, and nutty black sesame seeds, perfect for summer and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers
  • 2–3 tablespoons chili crisp (e.g., Lao Gan Ma)
  • 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers, then trim the ends.
  2. Place one cucumber on a cutting board and gently smash it using the side of a chef’s knife or a rolling pin until it cracks and breaks apart. Repeat with the second cucumber.
  3. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized chunks, about 1-2 inches each, keeping irregular pieces for texture.
  4. Toast the black sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently until fragrant and slightly popping. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together chili crisp, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  6. Place the cucumber chunks in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted black sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or scallions on top. Give the salad one last light toss.
  8. Optionally, let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately for maximum crunch.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid sogginess; toast sesame seeds just until fragrant to avoid burning. Adjust chili crisp amount to control heat. Letting salad rest 10-15 minutes mellows flavors but reduces crunch. Use tamari for gluten-free version. Fresh herbs like mint or basil can be used instead of cilantro.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, smashed cucumber, chili crisp, black sesame, summer salad, easy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/fresh-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-chili-crisp-and-black-sesame-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/