The smashed cucumber salad took over everyone's feed, and for good reason: it's crunchy, garlicky, glossy with chili oil, and takes 10 minutes. Smashing the cucumbers (instead of slicing) creates rough edges that grab every bit of the UNU dressing. It's the fresh, bright side that balances anything off the grill.
Why It Works
Smashing breaks the cucumber into craggy, dressing-catching pieces and releases water so the flavour soaks in. UNU brings garlic and warmth to the dressing without a long ingredient list. It's the fresh counterpoint to all the rich BBQ food.
Recipe
Prep: 10 min | Serves: 4
Approx. macros per serving: 90 cal · 2g protein · 7g carbs · 6g fat
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers
- 1 tsp UNU all-purpose seasoning
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- Toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onion to finish
Instructions
- Smash. Lay cucumbers on a board and smash with the flat of a knife or a rolling pin until they crack. Tear or chop into rough bite-size pieces.
- Salt and drain. Toss with a pinch of salt and let sit 10 minutes, then pour off the excess water.
- Make the dressing. Whisk UNU, soy, vinegar, chili oil, sesame oil and garlic.
- Toss. Coat the cucumbers in the dressing.
- Finish with sesame seeds and green onion. Serve cold.
Tips
- Drain the water or the dressing turns watery.
- Let it sit 15 minutes before serving so the flavour soaks in.
- Adjust chili oil to your heat preference.
Get UNU
Ready to make this? Shop UNU all-purpose seasoning
Made in Canada. Small-batch. Zero fillers. 100% flavour.
Made this recipe? Tag us on Instagram @spicoandsauco.