Smashed Cucumber Asian Salad

Smashed Cucumber Asian Salad

30 minutes - serves 6-8

9 small english cucumbers OR 5 large ones

1 tsp salt

3 green onions, chopped

6-7 minced garlic cloves

1/3 cup soy sauce (use the real stuff here, not the common thick stuff that is common in South Asia)

2 TBS rice vinegar

2 TBS sesame oil

3 tsp sugar or honey or maple syrup

2 TBS sesame seeds

1. Cut the ends of the cucumbers off. Using a rolling pin or belen, smash the cucumber flat. Cut the cucumber into bite sized pieces and set into a bowl. Sprinkle the salt over them and stir to incorporate. Set aside for 5 minutes (if you go longer than 10 minutes, the cucumbers will break down).

2. While waiting for the cucumbers, mix together the remaining ingredients and stir until the sugar is incorporated.

3. Drain the cucumbers and rinse with clean water 2-3 times until you can no longer feel any salt on them. Pat dry and return to the bowl.

4. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and stir. Refrigerate for 2 hours to chill.

5. Serve cool with your favorite fried rice!

Planning to move overseas soon? Check out my post on Stocking My Expat Kitchen!