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Creamy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe with Spicy Chili Crisp

creamy smashed cucumber salad - featured image

A quick and easy creamy smashed cucumber salad with a spicy chili crisp that delivers a refreshing, crunchy, and bold flavor perfect for warm weather and casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium English cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons spicy chili crisp
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: fresh cilantro or mint leaves, chopped
  • Optional: toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends off 3 medium English cucumbers. Place them on a cutting board and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently smash each cucumber lengthwise, cracking the skin without turning them to mush (about 5 minutes).
  2. Chop the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches chunks.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about 5 minutes).
  4. Place the smashed cucumber pieces in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until every piece is coated but not crushed. Drain excess liquid if cucumbers seem watery (3-4 minutes).
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of spicy chili crisp to the salad and fold in gently to distribute heat and crunch evenly (1-2 minutes).
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint and toasted sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Use light, controlled pressure when smashing cucumbers to avoid sogginess. Keep dressing and cucumbers separate if prepping ahead to maintain crispness. Use spicy chili crisp for best flavor and texture; plain chili oil is a less ideal substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, spicy chili crisp, easy cucumber salad, quick side dish, refreshing salad, summer salad