Smashed Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• 3 English cucumbers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili oil (or more if you like heat)
• 1 tsp sugar
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Place cucumbers on a cutting board. Smash them with the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin until they crack open. Tear or chop into rough bite-sized pieces.
2. Add a generous pinch of salt. Toss and let sit for 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess water.
3. Mix garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, and sugar in a small bowl.
4. Toss cucumbers with the dressing. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
5. Eat immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for extra flavour.

Notes

Smashing is better than slicing — the rough edges grab more dressing. More surface area, more flavour.