Why are people smashing cucumbers?

But smashing the cucumbers, as they do in the Sichuan version, breaks up their internal structure in a helpfully haphazard way . This allows the cucumbers to release water faster and results in a better-tasting salad. Here's why it makes such a difference.

What does soaking cucumbers in salt water do?

Adding salt to sliced cucumbers draws out the extra moisture in the vegetable , through a process called osmosis. Over time, the salt absorbs the water from the cucumber. What you're left with is a slightly drier cucumber with a more concentrated flavor (that won't make your salad watery).

How do you keep cucumber salad from getting soggy?

First, unless you can find seedless cucumbers, you must eviscerate them. Cucumber seeds, slimy, springy and evasive, will ruin the texture of any salad, soup or dip. Then, you must salt them to draw out as much liquid as possible.

Why you must not eat raw cucumber with meals?

But, eating cucumber with meals can cause indigestion for some people because of the compound called cucurbitacin (class of biochemical compounds) . Also, cucumbers must always be eaten with its skin on after it is washed thoroughly.”

What does eating cucumber before bed do?

They are rich in vitamins B6 and magnesium, both of which can help enhance sleep by calming the nervous system . Snacking on a few slices of cucumber before bedtime may help you drift off into a more peaceful slumber.

Why is my cucumber salad bitter?

Cucumbers—and other members of the pumpkin and gourd family—produce a compound called cucurbitacins that can impart a bitter taste . The amount of cucurbitacins a cucumber contains is increased when the plant faces adverse growing conditions, like a lack of water or excessive heat.

Why do some people peel cucumber?

To meet the demand, they are often sprayed with growth chemicals and preservatives making their consumption quite unhealthy. It is often advised that one should peel the cucumber and eat as the peel may contain chemicals and dirt .

What is the cucumber trend on TikTok?

Why are some TikTok users going live while holding cucumbers? The wacky trend was started by TikTok user @Faystar who began to go live everyday while holding a cucumber . Although some users have copied the trend, the popularity is mainly due to peoples' curiosity.

Is milking cucumbers a real thing?

Cut the top and rub the ends together and it makes the cucumber better. No lie. But does it actually work and should we all be milking our cucumbers? " Yes, this is a real thing ," John Adler, vice president of culinary operations at meal-kit delivery service Blue Apron, told TODAY.

What is attacking my cucumbers?

Cucumber beetles, squash bugs, squash vine borers and other pests can attack cucumbers. Some of these pests also transmit diseases. Consult our pest guides below to find out how to identify common cucumber pests...

Smashed Cucumber Salad (2024)

4.6

(80)

57 Reviews

8 Photos

This smashed cucumber salad is one of my all-time favorite cold summer side dishes. By crushing our cucumber before we cut it, we produce flavors that un-smashed cukes can't. When you crush the cells in a vegetable, as opposed to cutting cleanly through them, certain compounds get mixed together, which can result in a significantly different flavor.In cucumbers, this is a good thing — onions, not so much. The only decision you're going to have to make is how long to let the cucumbers marinate — half an hour or so or not at all.

John Mitzewich

John Mitzewich — aka Chef John — has produced more than 1,500 cooking videos for Allrecipes.He's the actor, director, and screenwriter whose hands and voice confidently walk you through techniques.

Allrecipes' editorial guidelines

Updated on February 20, 2024

Tested by

Allrecipes Test Kitchen

Tested byAllrecipes Test Kitchen

The Allrecipes Test Kitchen staff are a team of culinary pros who make and vet recipes using only equipment you'd find in a home kitchen. Staff credentials vary but include training at the Culinary Institute of America; kitchen stints in fine dining restaurants; and countless hours in the test kitchen itself.

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Ingredients

2 English cucumbers
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed
1 teaspoon white sugar
2 cloves garlic, finely crushed
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
red pepper flakes to taste
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Wrap each cucumber in plastic wrap to minimize splattering. Place on a work surface and pound with a flat object (like a meat pounder) until cucumbers crack and are slightly flattened. Remove from plastic. Cut cucumbers in half; halve each side lengthwise. Slice into 1- to 1 1/2 -inch wide slices. Transfer to a strainer set over a bowl.
Sprinkle cucumber with salt and sugar; mix until well combined. Refrigerate the bowl and strainer for 30 to 60 minutes so cucumber pieces can drain into the bowl.
Place garlic, seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl; whisk together thoroughly.
Transfer drained cucumbers into the bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.
Place cucumbers in a serving bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Recipe Tip

In place of seasoned rice vinegar, you can use plain rice vinegar and add an extra pinch of salt and sugar to the dressing.

Editor's Note:

Please note differences in ingredient amounts when following the magazine version of this recipe.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

29	Calories
1g	Fat
4g	Carbs
1g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe6
Calories29
% Daily Value *
Total Fat1g	2%
Saturated Fat0g	1%
Sodium530mg	23%
Total Carbohydrate4g	1%
Dietary Fiber1g	4%
Total Sugars2g
Protein1g	3%
Vitamin C5mg	6%
Calcium13mg	1%
Iron0mg	1%
Potassium21mg	0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.