When it comes to refreshing salads, nothing quite hits the spot like a traditional smashed cucumber salad. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Asian cuisines, offering a cool and tangy flavor that is perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy side dish or a standalone meal, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 2 English cucumbers
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions:

To make this delicious smashed cucumber salad, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by washing the cucumbers and patting them dry with a paper towel.
2. Using a rolling pin or the flat side of a kitchen knife, gently smash the cucumbers until they split open.
3. Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the smashed cucumbers and toss to combine.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro and peanuts on top for an added crunch and freshness.

Benefits of Cucumbers:

Cucumbers are not only low in calories but also high in essential nutrients like vitamins K and C. Their high water content makes them incredibly hydrating, while their crunchy texture adds a satisfying crunch to any dish. Including cucumbers in your diet can help boost hydration, support digestion, and even aid in weight loss.

By smashing the cucumbers in this recipe, you release even more of their juices and flavors, making for a salad that is both refreshing and flavorful. The combination of tangy soy sauce, zesty rice vinegar, and aromatic sesame oil creates a dressing that perfectly complements the coolness of the cucumbers.

So next time you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad to enjoy on a hot summer day, give this traditional smashed cucumber salad a try. With its simple ingredients and burst of flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.