Smashed Cucumber Avocado with Sesame (Printable)

Smashed cucumbers and avocado tossed in sesame oil, rice vinegar and soy; topped with toasted sesame and scallions.

# What You 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)

# Directions:

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.
06 - Serve immediately for best texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Mashing the cucumbers brings out their juiciness and lets them soak up the bold sesame dressing in a way that’s almost addictive.
  • This salad is just the sort of recipe that wins you compliments while quietly saving you from fuss in the kitchen.
02 -
  • Once I made the mistake of dressing the salad too early and ended up with soggy cucumbers and sad avocado—always toss right before eating.
  • Switching to maple syrup instead of honey brought a lovely, subtle earthiness and makes the whole bowl vegan-friendly.
03 -
  • Use a rolling pin for smashing if you want chunkier cucumber pieces and a little extra juice in the bowl.
  • Always taste the dressing before pouring—it should be punchy, nutty, and balanced for your palate.
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