Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad

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Dive into a world of crunch and flavor with this Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad, a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds with its blend of savory, tangy, and spicy notes. Perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack, this salad is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 fresh cucumbers
  • 2/3 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 large cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon of Chinese black vinegar (Chinkiang vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon of chili oil for that kick of spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors
  • 1/2 teaspoon of regular soy sauce for depth
  • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty finish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Lay them on a cutting board and gently smack them with the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin. The goal is to slightly crush them so they break open, allowing the flavors to penetrate more deeply. Then, cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Salt the Cucumbers: Place the cucumber pieces in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with the salt. Mix well and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out some of the water, making the cucumbers even crisper.
  3. Drain the Cucumbers: After letting them sit, drain any excess liquid from the cucumbers to ensure the salad isn’t watery.
  4. Add Flavor: Add the minced garlic to the cucumbers. Pour in the Chinese black vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and soy sauce. Gently toss the cucumbers in this mixture to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
  5. Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle the sesame oil over the salad and give it one final mix. The sesame oil adds a beautiful aroma and a rich, nutty flavor that ties the whole dish together.
  6. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. This Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed fresh, allowing you to experience the full crispness of the cucumbers along with the vibrant flavors of the dressing.

This salad is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side to accompany your main meal or a light, flavorful snack, this smacked cucumber salad is sure to impress.