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Japanese Smashed Cucumber Salad

Light and Zesty Japanese Smashed Cucumber Salad Delight

This Japanese Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, gluten-free and vegan option, perfect for summer meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Salting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 large seedless cucumbers Kyuri preferred, Persian or Lebanese also work
  • 1 teaspoon salt for enhancing flavor
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar can substitute with apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil or neutral oil if desired
  • 2 tablespoons scallions optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • meat mallet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the seedless cucumbers under cool, running water to remove any dirt. Cut into large chunks, about 2-3 inches.
  2. Gently smash each cucumber chunk with a heavy knife or meat mallet until cracks form.
  3. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the smashed cucumbers and toss to coat. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until fully combined.
  5. Drain excess moisture from cucumbers, transfer to a mixing bowl, and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently.
  6. Optional: slice scallions and sprinkle over the salad. Chill for about 10 minutes if preferred.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Enjoy fresh for the best crunch. Customize dressing to taste and consider adding toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor.

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