crushed cucumber salad recipe

The Best crushed cucumber salad recipe

I’ve been making this crushed cucumber salad recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot summer days when you need something light and refreshing. I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering, where it was served as a side dish to grilled meats and vegetables. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, tangy yogurt, and fresh dill is just amazing.

My kids love helping me make it, as they get to crush the cucumbers with their hands (gloves on, of course!) and mix everything together. We often have this salad on hand for quick lunches or as a snack when we’re out in the garden. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time, which is a must for busy families like mine.

The best part? It’s packed with nutrients from the cucumbers, yogurt, and herbs, making it a guilt-free option for anyone looking to eat healthier. My husband raves about the way the flavors come together in this salad – he says it’s like a taste explosion in your mouth! And the best part?

It’s so easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices. One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – we’ve served it at picnics, barbecues, and even as a side dish at holiday gatherings. It’s always a hit! So if you’re looking for a new salad recipe to try out, give this one a shot.

Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you! I’ve also found that this recipe makes a great base for other salads – feel free to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients! The key home cooking technique here is all about texture – you want to crush those cucumbers just enough so they retain some crunch but are still tender. Don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with mushy cucumbers!

A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 50% of the cucumber pieces still intact. This way, you get the best of both worlds: crunch and flavor.

Crushed Cucumber Salad

4.6 from 1736 votes

A refreshing and tangy Chinese-style salad featuring cucumbers crushed to release their flavor. Tossed with a spicy garlic dressing, it is perfect as a light side dish or appetizer.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 80 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large English cucumbers
1 teaspoon salt

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the cucumbers and pat them dry.
2Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a chef’s knife, gently crush the cucumbers until they crack open, then cut them into bite-sized chunks.
3Place the cucumber chunks in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt.
4Toss well and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
5In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and chili flakes.
6Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
7Drain any liquid from the cucumbers and pour the dressing over them.
8Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
9Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.
10Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Rolling pin or flat side of a knife
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 80 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a milder salad, reduce or omit the chili flakes. English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture.

Watch Video Of How Crushed Cucumber Salad Works

This crushed cucumber salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need something light and refreshing after a long day in the garden. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices. My family loves helping me make it (they get to crush those cucumbers!)

, and we often have leftovers that we enjoy throughout the week. One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – we’ve served it at picnics, barbecues, and even as a side dish at holiday gatherings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crushed Cucumber Salad

Q: Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers?

A: Yes, you can use English cucumbers if you prefer them – they have a thinner skin and less bitterness than regular cucumbers.

Q: What type of yogurt should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using plain Greek yogurt – it has a higher protein content than regular yogurt and will help keep the salad creamy without adding too much liquid.

Q: Can I add garlic to this recipe?

A: Yes, garlic pairs really well with cucumber and dill – simply mince 1-2 cloves depending on your preference and mix them into the salad along with the other ingredients.

Q: How long can I store this salad in the fridge?

A: This salad will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days without any issues – just give it a good stir before serving.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time but assemble the salad just before serving – this will ensure everything stays fresh and crisp.

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