Get ready to experience a mind-blowing culinary adventure with our Smashed Cucumber Salad with Ume Dressing – a dish that transforms the humble cucumber into a flavor explosion! This isn't just another salad; it's a Japanese-inspired sensation that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Imagine crisp, roughly smashed cucumbers dressed in a tangy umeboshi paste that delivers a punch of unique, mouth-watering flavor in every single bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons umeboshi paste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the cucumbers on a cutting board and using the flat side of a chef's knife or a rolling pin, gently smash the cucumbers. This technique helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing and creates a rustic, uneven texture.
- After smashing, roughly chop the cucumbers into bite-sized irregular pieces, discarding the ends.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine umeboshi paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Whisk the ingredients until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well blended.
- Place the smashed cucumber pieces in a serving bowl and pour the prepared dressing over them.
- Gently toss the cucumbers to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Smashing Technique: When smashing cucumbers, use a gentle but firm pressure. The goal is to create cracks and uneven surfaces that help the dressing cling better, not to completely pulverize the cucumber.
- Umeboshi Paste Selection: Choose a high-quality umeboshi paste for the most authentic and intense flavor. The better the paste, the more delicious your salad will be.
- Chilling is Key: Let the salad rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. For an even more intense taste, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
- Sesame Seed Tip: Toast your sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling them over the salad to enhance their nutty flavor and aroma.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold, so prepare it just before serving for the most crisp and vibrant texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
