Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Absolutely! Just peel them if the skin is tough or waxy and scoop out any large seeds for a more pleasant texture.

Is it okay to prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, prepping ahead works well—but know that the cucumbers will release liquid and soften a bit the longer they sit. For the best crunch, smash right before serving and toss quickly.

Do you have to use miso paste?

Miso is the backbone of the dressing and lends an incredible savoriness. In a pinch, a dab of soy sauce and a splash of rice vinegar can mimic some of the depth, but the result will be different.

What else can I do with this dressing?

Try drizzling it over steamed veggies, roasted potatoes, grain bowls, or as a zippy dip for spring rolls. It’s super versatile!

Refreshing Miso Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Description

This Refreshing Miso Smashed Cucumber Salad features crisp cucumbers lightly smashed for texture, tossed with a creamy, flavorful miso dressing, crunchy peanuts, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime. Perfect as a quick and healthy side or appetizer, this dish combines savory, sweet, and zesty notes for a vibrant and refreshing salad.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Salad

- - 2 English cucumbers or 4 medium garden cucumbers
  - 1 shallot or small red onion, very finely diced
  - 1/4 cup raw peanuts, coarsely chopped
  - Small handful chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing

- 1/4 cup miso paste
- 2 tablespoons raw honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 fresh lime, juice and zest

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Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and pat dry your cucumbers. Place each cucumber on a clean cutting board and slice in half lengthwise. Then, slice those long pieces in half crosswise to get manageable sections.
Smash the Cucumbers: Position the cucumber sections, cut side down, on the board. Using the flat side of a large chef’s knife, gently press down to slightly smash the cucumbers open. Alternatively, use a cleaver, rolling pin, meat tenderizer, or your hands. This helps create craggy surfaces for the dressing to cling to.
Slice into Bite-Sized Pieces: Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized chunks at an angle for better texture and presentation.
Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the miso paste, raw honey, toasted sesame oil, lime juice, and zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine the Salad: Add the smashed cucumber pieces, diced shallot or red onion, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately for maximum crunch, or chill in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the peanuts before adding.
Chill the salad for a few hours for deeper flavors.
You can substitute agave syrup for honey for a vegan option.
Adjust the amount of cilantro according to preference.
English cucumbers work best for their thinner skin and fewer seeds, but garden cucumbers can also be used.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 120
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg