Smashed Cucumber and Avocado Salad (Print Version)

Crisp smashed cucumbers and creamy avocado in a toasted sesame dressing—bright, quick, and refreshing.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers
02 - 2 ripe avocados

→ Dressing

03 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
04 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
06 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
07 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
08 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)

→ Garnish

09 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (black or white)
10 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
11 - 1 small handful fresh cilantro or mint leaves (optional)
12 - Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

# Cooking Directions:

01 - Rinse the cucumbers. Cut off the ends, then slice each cucumber in half lengthwise. Place cut side down on a large cutting board. Use the flat side of a large chef’s knife or rolling pin to smash each half gently until it cracks and splits. Cut into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a bowl.
02 - Halve and pit the avocados. Cut the flesh into bite-sized cubes and add to the bowl with the cucumbers.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and ginger (if using).
04 - Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and avocado. Toss gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
05 - Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, green onions, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
06 - Serve immediately for best texture.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The smashed cucumbers soak up just the right amount of nutty-sweet dressing—it’s like a flavor secret weapon.
  • It’s a joy to toss together when you want maximum taste with minimal effort and cleanup.
02 -
  • If you overdress and let it sit, the cucumbers lose their crunch—dress right before serving for peak snappiness.
  • Once, forgetting the sesame seeds made the salad feel unfinished; they really are the understated star.
03 -
  • Never skip toasting your sesame seeds—it brings out a whole new dimension in the garnish.
  • Toss avocado last and as gently as possible; rough handling can quickly turn creamy into mushy.
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