How do you make cucumber smash?

To make a cucumber smash recipe, smash English cucumbers until cracked, cut into chunks, salt and drain, then toss with a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Let it rest to deepen the flavors.

What’s the point of smashing a cucumber?

Smashing increases the surface area and creates rough edges, allowing the cucumber to absorb dressings more effectively. It also creates a satisfying crunchy texture that's key to the cucumber smash recipe.

How do you make a cucumber mint smash drink?

A cucumber mint smash drink combines muddled cucumber and mint with lime juice, simple syrup, and sparkling water (or gin for a cocktail). It’s refreshing and aromatic, perfect for hot weather.

What makes a drink a “smash”?

In drinks, a “smash” refers to muddling fresh herbs and fruit, often with spirits, citrus, and sugar. The smashed elements release oils and juices for bold, fresh flavor.

Cucumber Smash Recipe – Refreshing Flavor in 30 Minutes

Description

A bold, crunchy cucumber smash recipe packed with garlic, soy, and sesame—perfect as a chilled side or light appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

2 English cucumbers
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon white sugar
2 cloves garlic, finely crushed
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Red pepper flakes to taste
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
2 scallions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Wrap cucumbers in plastic wrap and gently smash them with a flat object until slightly cracked.
2. Remove wrap and cut cucumbers into uneven chunks.
3. Toss with salt and sugar. Place in a strainer over a bowl and refrigerate 30–60 minutes.
4. Whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes to make dressing.
5. Add drained cucumbers to dressing and toss until fully coated.
6. Chill for 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld.
7. Top with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.

Notes

Add chili oil or crushed peanuts for extra flavor.
Coconut aminos can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Great for meal prep—store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Easy Recipes
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 45
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 2.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

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