This smashed cucumber salad is not only lovely and crisp, but also incredibly fresh and flavorful. In just a few minutes, you can create a surprisingly satisfying side with notes of smooth sesame and cilantro. Perfect recipe for your garden cucumbers!
Place the cucumber on a cutting board, and using the back of a large chef's knife or a rolling pin, gently "smash" it. You're not trying to flatten it. You simply want to crack it open so that outside tears.
Cut the smashed cucumber into 1-inch long pieces.
Transfer the pieces to a bowl, season with the salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. (This step is the key to big flavor!)
Drain off any liquid from the bowl.
Add the vinegar, oil, cilantro, garlic, sugar, and sesame seeds. Toss lightly to mix evenly and serve.
Notes
If you cannot find a Japanese or English cucumber, choose any cucumber with a thin skin or peel a common slicing cucumber.
If you cannot find seasoned rice vinegar, dissolve ¼ teaspoon of organic sugar and a pinch of kosher salt in one tablespoon of regular rice vinegar.