Smashed Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili oil (optional)
• 1 tbsp cilantro (chopped, optional)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Steps

1. Wash the cucumbers and smash them with the flat side of a knife, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place the smashed cucumbers in a bowl, add salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess water.
3. Drain the water from the cucumbers, then add minced garlic, light soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil (if using).
4. Toss well and garnish with cilantro and toasted sesame seeds (if using) before serving.