Smashed Cucumber Mediterranean Salad

by | Jun 5, 2025 | Vegetarian Recipes

Credit @feelgoodfoodie

Crunchy, yummy cucumber salad with delicious lemon dressing. Smashing cucumbers releases moisture and creates texture, which helps the cucumber absorb flavor better.

 

smashed cucumber salad sprinkled with yummy toppings and cheese Ingredients

  • 2 English cucumbers
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 small shallot, minced
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried mint
  • ½ teaspoon sumac
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

 

Instructions

  1. Place cucumbers on a cutting board and use a meat mallet or heavy flat object to pound the cucumbers until they smash and flatten slightly.
  2. Slice each cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice into 1 ½ inch-thick slices and pound again.
  3. Transfer the smashed sliced cucumbers to a strainer set over a bowl. Sprinkle the cucumber with salt and mix until well combined.
  4. Set for 30 minutes to allow the liquid to drain from the cucumber.
  5. Meanwhile, make the dressing by whisking together the shallot, lemon juice, olive oil, mint, sumac, and black pepper in a serving bowl.
  6. Use a paper towel to dab the cucumber dry.
  7. Transfer the dried cucumber on top of the dressing. Sprinkle the feta cheese and toasted sesame seeds on top.