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Fresh Smashed Persian Cucumber Salad Easy Recipe with Sesame Ginger Dressing

fresh smashed persian cucumber salad - featured image
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A quick and refreshing smashed Persian cucumber salad tossed in a bright, nutty sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 small Persian cucumbers, washed and patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 4-5 Persian cucumbers under cold water and pat dry. Trim off the ends.
  2. Place one cucumber at a time on a cutting board and gently smash it using a rolling pin or the side of a chef’s knife until it cracks open but doesn’t turn mushy (about 5 seconds per cucumber).
  3. Chop the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches pieces. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended (about 2 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra honey if needed.
  5. Pour the dressing over the smashed cucumbers. Add 2 thinly sliced green onions, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
  6. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Just before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust salt or pepper to taste. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or mint on top.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid mushiness. Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes after tossing to allow flavors to meld. Toast sesame seeds lightly before use for enhanced flavor. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup and soy sauce with tamari. Salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: Persian cucumber salad, smashed cucumber, sesame ginger dressing, easy cucumber salad, summer salad, gluten-free salad, vegan salad option

Find it online: https://forkmila.com/fresh-smashed-persian-cucumber-salad-easy-recipe-with-sesame-ginger-dressing/