Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Get ready to elevate your salad game with this vibrant and refreshing recipe for Smashed Cucumber Salad! This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the crispness of smashed cucumbers with a zesty dressing featuring preserved lemons and a hint of spicy Harissa. Fresh mint leaves, Kalamata olives, and a crunchy bulgur topping add layers of flavor and texture, making this salad a perfect choice for a light lunch or appetizer bursting with Mediterranean flair.

This simple yet flavorful salad is a delightful balance of spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements that come together in under 30 minutes. It’s a vegetarian dish that can easily be made vegan, offering a harmonious blend of refreshing ingredients. Salting and draining the cucumbers is key to achieving the ideal texture, while the homemade pistachio dukkah adds a nutty crunch that complements the dish perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Smashed Cucumber Salad is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

Quick Benefits

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple ingredients with impressive flavor impact
• Perfectly balanced with spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements
• Vegetarian and easily made vegan

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Recipe

• Vibrant Mediterranean Flavors: A refreshing mix of cool cucumbers with bold harissa and preserved lemons, balanced with crunchy bulgur topping.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a speedy lunch or impressive side dish for guests.
• Balanced Flavors: Spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements harmonize perfectly in every bite.
• Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: Adaptable for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
• Family Favorite: A go-to recipe for summer gatherings, loved for its delicious taste and simplicity.
• Quality Ingredients: From snack cucumbers to preserved lemons, each component is carefully selected for optimal flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead: Can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld and keeping the dish stress-free.
• Dukkah Magic: The homemade pistachio dukkah adds nutty crunch and aromatic spice, elevating the overall dish.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as part of a mezze spread or paired with proteins like grilled halloumi, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
• Flavor Development: Allowing the salad to rest enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious over time.
• Cooking Tips: Handy tricks like smashing cucumbers and toasting coriander add extra depth and texture to the dish.
• Customization: Dukkah can be adjusted to taste preferences, and substitutions are suggested for hard-to-find ingredients, ensuring you can still enjoy this flavorful dish.
• Presentation: Serve in a beautiful bowl with extra mint leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.
• Protein Pairings: Easily turn this salad into a main course by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal option.
• Alternative Ingredients: Helpful suggestions like using lemon zest instead of preserved lemons or substituting harissa with a milder option ensure you can still enjoy the dish if specific ingredients are unavailable.

Ingredients for Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Smashed Cucumber Salad

• ½ lemon, juiced
• 6 preserved lemon slices in oil, seeds removed and finely chopped OR 1/2 whole small preserved lemon
• 6 mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 ½ tbsp pistachio dukkah OR 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
• 1 pinch flaky salt
• 250 g snack cucumbers
• 1 tsp ground coriander seeds
• 100 g pitted Kalamata olives
• 1 tsp Harissa
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil

Crispy Bulgur

• 100 g cooked bulgur
• ½ tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Pistachio Dukkah

• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 3 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1 pinch salt
• 75 g pistachios
• 50 g almonds
• 1 tsp Nigella seeds
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (such as Aleppo pepper or mild chili)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp ground coriander

Pro Tips for Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Pro Tips:

1. When selecting snack cucumbers, opt for smaller sizes for a crunchier texture with fewer seeds. Preserved lemons in oil are preferred for a milder acidity and enhanced flavor. Fresh mint should be vibrant green without wilting for that cooling effect.

2. To enhance the spicy and tangy flavor profile of this salad, toast ground coriander seeds before adding to the dressing. If you can’t find preserved lemons, substitute with lemon zest and a pinch of salt. Rest the salad for 15 minutes post-assembly to let the flavors meld before adding the crispy bulgur for the perfect crunch.

How to Make Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Crush cucumbers with a pestle, chop roughly, and transfer to a colander. Toss with 1 tsp flaky salt, let sit for 15-20 minutes, rinse with water, and drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Step 02

Preheat the oven to 200ºC/400ºF with the fan setting on.

Step 3: Step 03

Spread cooked bulgur on a lined sheet pan. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake on the middle rack for 10 minutes or until crispy, stirring halfway through.

Step 4: Step 04

In a small bowl, mix preserved lemon, mint, Harissa, ground coriander, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.

Step 5: Step 05

Mix together the cucumbers, Kalamata olives, lemon and Harissa dressing. Add the pistachio dukkah or chopped pistachios, and sprinkle with crispy bulgur on top.

Step 6: Step 06

Toast pistachios and almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until almonds are slightly browned. Remove and set aside. Toast sesame, Nigella, cumin, and fennel seeds in the same pan until sesame seeds are golden brown. Pulse nuts in a food processor until coarsely ground, then add seeds, spices, and salt, pulsing until evenly mixed.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the vibrant Smashed Cucumber Salad, storing it properly will help maintain its flavors and textures. You can store the salad components separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the cucumbers and dressing combined for up to 4 hours before serving, but add the crispy bulgur just before serving to preserve its delightful crunch. Allowing the salad to rest for about 15 minutes after assembly but before adding the bulgur will enhance the flavors as they meld together.

The preserved lemons are a key ingredient in this recipe, providing a unique depth of flavor. If you can’t find preserved lemons, a good substitute is lemon zest mixed with a small amount of salt. Additionally, if you enjoy meal prepping, this salad can be made up to 4 hours ahead, making it a convenient option for gatherings or quick meals. When ready to serve, a shallow bowl with extra mint leaves and a drizzle of quality olive oil will present the dish beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re unable to find snack cucumbers, English cucumbers can be a suitable substitute. While they may have more seeds, the crisp texture and mild flavor will work well in this salad.

In the absence of preserved lemons, you can create a similar flavor profile by using lemon zest with a touch of salt. This will provide the tangy and salty notes needed to balance the dish.

For a nut-free alternative to the pistachio dukkah, consider using toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor without compromising the overall taste of the salad.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider assembling individual cucumber salad cups for a stylish presentation at your next gathering. Layer smashed cucumbers at the bottom of small glass cups, followed by a dollop of the zesty preserved lemon and harissa dressing. Top each cup with a sprinkle of mint, Kalamata olives, and a generous spoonful of the pistachio dukkah for a visually appealing and flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests.

Another inventive idea is to turn this Mediterranean salad into a vibrant and nutritious wrap. Spread a thin layer of hummus on a large whole wheat or gluten-free tortilla, then pile on the smashed cucumber salad mixture. Add a handful of fresh leafy greens and a drizzle of extra olive oil before wrapping it all up. This portable and satisfying wrap is perfect for a quick lunch on the go or a picnic in the park, combining the refreshing flavors of the salad with the convenience of a handheld meal.

FAQs for Crunchy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 4 hours ahead by combining the cucumbers and dressing. Add the crispy bulgur just before serving to maintain its crunch.

What can I use as a substitute for preserved lemons?

If preserved lemons are unavailable, you can substitute them with the zest of one lemon mixed with a small amount of salt for a similar tangy and salty flavor.

Can I make the dukkah spice blend ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dukkah spice blend in advance. Store it in an airtight container for up to a month and use it as a topping for various dishes.

How can I make this salad a complete meal?

To make this salad a complete meal, you can add protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese. These additions will make the salad more filling and satisfying.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Smashed Cucumber Salad is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. The combination of cool cucumbers, zesty preserved lemons, and a crispy bulgur topping offers a refreshing and satisfying dish that is both simple to prepare and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a show-stopping addition to your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, get smashing those cucumbers, and treat yourself to a culinary experience that dances on your taste buds. Embrace the unique blend of spices, the crunch of pistachio dukkah, and the brightness of fresh mint in this exceptional Smashed Cucumber Salad. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite proteins or customizing the spice levels to suit your palate. Here’s to creating delicious memories and savoring every bite of this delightful salad!