08/19/2026
This smashed cucumber salad is the ultimate side dish on hot summer days! It's crisp, cool, and refreshing -- a perfect balance to smokey BBQ meats.
Smashed Cucumber Salad (serves 4)
Dietary: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free
Total Time: 30 minutes
3 large English cucumbers
1½ teaspoons sea salt
1 small shallot, peeled and thinly sliced
4½ tablespoons champagne vinegar
3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons Sriracha
1½ teaspoons cane sugar
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon crushed red chilies
1 tablespoon Gomasio seasoning or toasted sesame seeds
½ bunch cilantro, cut into 2-inch sprigs
1. Quarter the cucumbers lengthwise and remove the seeds. Cut into 1-inch diagonal pieces, discarding the ends. Place cucumbers in a resealable bag and gently smash with a rolling pin until lightly cracked.
2. Transfer cucumbers to a bowl and toss with sea salt. Let rest for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Drain, pat dry with paper towels, and return cucumbers to the bowl. Add sliced shallots.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sriracha, cane sugar, garlic powder, crushed red chilies, and Gomasio seasoning.
4. Toss cucumbers and shallots with the dressing until evenly coated. Fold in cilantro and chill briefly or serve immediately.
