Smashed Cucumber Avocado Salad (Printer-Friendly)

Crisp smashed cucumbers with creamy avocado and toasted sesame in a tangy soy and rice vinegar dressing.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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)

# Direction Steps:

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. Serve immediately for best texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Your secret: smashing cucumbers lets them soak up the tangy dressing in the most delicious way.
  • This salad is lightning-fast, super-adaptable, and steals the show with every bite.
02 -
  • Learned the hard way: if you add the avocado too early, it all gets mushy and the vibrant look disappears.
  • Waiting until the last second for herbs and seeds keeps everything perky and colorful—presentation does count.
03 -
  • A good smash on the cucumber changes everything—don’t rush this step, it’s where the magic starts.
  • It’s worth tracking down toasted sesame oil, the flavor is irreplaceable and sets this salad apart.
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