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Fresh Gut-Healthy Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe with Probiotic Vinegar

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A refreshing smashed cucumber salad made with probiotic rice vinegar, sesame oil, and fresh herbs, perfect for a quick, gut-friendly side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers, washed and ready to smash
  • 3 tablespoons probiotic rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or mint, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Wash cucumbers thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then slice lengthwise into halves or thirds depending on size. Place slices on cutting board.
  2. Using a mortar and pestle, gently press down on each cucumber piece until it cracks and splits but still holds shape. Alternatively, use the bottom of a pan or rolling pin with gentle pressure to smash cucumbers. (Time: 5 minutes)
  3. Transfer smashed cucumbers to a colander, sprinkle with half of the sea salt, and let drain for 10 minutes to remove excess water.
  4. While cucumbers drain, toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside. Warm sesame oil lightly for 10-15 seconds to bring out aroma without smoking.
  5. In a small bowl, combine probiotic rice vinegar, warmed sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar or honey, red pepper flakes (if using), and remaining salt. Whisk gently to blend.
  6. Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place in a mixing bowl, add sliced green onions and chopped cilantro or mint. Pour dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat.
  7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately for freshest crunch or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors. (Time: 10 minutes)

Notes

Use unpasteurized probiotic rice vinegar to retain gut-friendly bacteria. Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning. Drain cucumbers well to prevent watery salad. Serve fresh or refrigerate up to 12 hours; flavors deepen but cucumbers soften. For vegan option, swap honey with sugar or maple syrup. Smashing cucumbers releases more flavor and juice than slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: smashed cucumber salad, probiotic vinegar, gut-healthy salad, refreshing cucumber salad, sesame oil salad, quick cucumber recipe, vegan cucumber salad

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/fresh-gut-healthy-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-with-probiotic-vinegar/