Dive into the world of flavor with our Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad! This crunchy and tangy dish combines fresh cucumbers with savory, tangy, and spicy flavors for a delightful treat that will tantalize your taste buds. Simple yet vibrant, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a refreshing snack. Let’s embark on the journey of creating this burst of flavor together!
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh cucumbers
- 2/3 teaspoon salt
- 2 large cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar (Chinkiang vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon regular soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then gently smack them with the back of a knife or a rolling pin to slightly crush them. Cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
- Salt the Cucumbers:
- Place the cucumber pieces in a bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Allow the cucumbers to sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
- Drain the Cucumbers:
- After 10 minutes, drain the excess liquid from the cucumbers by gently squeezing them or using a colander.
- Add Flavor:
- Add the minced garlic to the cucumbers, followed by the Chinese black vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and soy sauce. Toss the cucumbers gently to coat them evenly with the flavorful dressing.
- Finish with Sesame Oil:
- Drizzle the sesame oil over the salad and mix well to incorporate it into the cucumbers and dressing.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately as a vibrant and flavorful side dish or refreshing snack.
Conclusion: Celebrate the simplicity and vibrancy of fresh ingredients with our Refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad. With its crunchy cucumbers and bold flavors of garlic, vinegar, chili oil, and sesame oil, this salad is a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a side dish to complement a main course or as a standalone snack, this salad is sure to impress with its burst of flavor. Embrace the refreshing goodness of this dish and elevate your culinary experience today!