How to Make Authentic Japanese Smashed Cucumber Salad at Home

If you’ve been craving a refreshing, tangy, and oh-so-crunchy salad that takes just 10 minutes to throw together, you’re in for a treat! This smashed cucumber salad Japanese-style, known as Tataki Kyuri (literally “smashed cucumber” in Japanese), is a game-changer. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish to balance out a rich meal or a quick snack to enjoy on a hot day, this cucumber salad hits the spot. And the best part? It’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along!

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Cucumber Salad Japanese

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal chopping and smashing (the fun part!).
• Flavor Explosion: The umami-packed soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), nutty sesame oil, and a hint of heat from togarashi create a flavor combo that’ll have you hooked.
• Healthy and Light: Low in calories but high in crunch and flavor—perfect for guilt-free snacking.

So, grab your cucumbers and let’s get smashing!

What is Tataki Kyuri (Japanese Smashed Cucumber Salad)?

Tataki Kyuri is a popular Japanese side dish where cucumbers are lightly smashed to create uneven edges that absorb the dressing better than perfectly cut slices. “Tataki” means “smashed” or “pounded,” and “kyuri” means “cucumber.” This smashed cucumber salad Japanese-style dish is often served as a refreshing appetizer in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice dishes, and other Japanese favorites.

Why Smash the Cucumbers?

Smashing the cucumbers isn’t just for fun—it has a purpose! When you smash the cucumbers:

• The irregular edges soak up the dressing better.
• The cucumbers release some of their juices, making them extra crunchy.
• It adds a rustic, casual vibe to the dish that’s perfect for easy dining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to whip up this simple yet flavor-packed salad:

• 4 Persian cucumbers or 2 Japanese cucumbers (250g) – Small and seedless varieties work best.
• 2 tsp tamari (10g) – Use soy sauce if gluten isn’t an issue.
• 2 tsp sesame oil (10g) – Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth.
• 1 tsp maple syrup (7g) – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (5g) – For that irresistible crunch!
• 1 fresh garlic clove, minced (4g) – Adds a punch of flavor.
• 1 small knob of ginger, grated (8g) – Fresh ginger gives it a warm, aromatic kick.
• 1/2 tsp kombu dashi granules (2.5g) – Adds subtle umami richness.
• 2–3 shakes of togarashi – A Japanese spice blend that adds a gentle heat.
• 2 tbsp scallions, sliced (10g) – For a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Smashed Cucumber Salad Japanese Style

This recipe is so easy, you’ll want to make it on repeat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it just right:

1. Smash the Cucumbers

• Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.
• Place them on a cutting board and lightly smash them with a rolling pin or the flat side of a chef’s knife. (Tip: Don’t go Hulk mode—you want them smashed, not pulverized!)
• Once smashed, cut the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. The uneven edges help soak up the delicious dressing.

2. Salt and Drain (Optional but Recommended)

• Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the smashed cucumbers and let them sit for 5 minutes.
• This step draws out excess moisture and intensifies the crunch. After 5 minutes, gently squeeze out the extra liquid or pat them dry with a paper towel.

3. Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, sesame oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, kombu dashi granules, and togarashi.
• Stir until everything is well combined and the dashi granules dissolve.

4. Toss and Marinate

• Add the smashed cucumbers to a large bowl.
• Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.
• Sprinkle in the sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
• Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

• Give it a quick toss before serving.
• Garnish with extra sesame seeds or a dash of togarashi if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for the Best Tataki Kyuri

To take your smashed cucumber salad Japanese-style to the next level, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use the Right Cucumbers

Persian and Japanese cucumbers are ideal because they’re firm, have fewer seeds, and don’t release too much water. If you’re using English cucumbers, scrape out the seeds before smashing to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

2. Smash, Don’t Pulverize

Lightly press down with a rolling pin or the side of a knife. You’re aiming for a slight crack that opens up the cucumbers to absorb the dressing—not a mushy mess.

3. Salt and Drain for Extra Crunch

If you have a few extra minutes, salting the cucumbers before tossing them with the dressing helps maintain that satisfying crunch.

4. Let It Sit for Maximum Flavor

While this salad is delicious right away, letting it marinate for 10–15 minutes enhances the flavors even more.

Variations to Try

Feeling creative? Here are a few twists to give this classic dish a fresh spin:

1. Spicy Korean-Style Cucumber Salad

Add 1 tsp of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicy, slightly sweet kick.

2. Chinese-Style Garlic Cucumber Salad

Add a splash of rice vinegar and a bit of chili oil for a Chinese-inspired version that’s bold and tangy.

3. Thai-Inspired Cucumber Salad

Add fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dash of fish sauce for a Southeast Asian flair.

Storage Tips: Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes! In fact, this smashed cucumber salad Japanese-style tastes even better after sitting for a while. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will soften slightly but will still be flavorful.
• Don’t Freeze: Cucumbers don’t freeze well and will become mushy when thawed, so stick to enjoying this fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular cucumbers for this salad?

Yes, but be sure to scoop out the seeds to avoid excess water. Regular cucumbers are more watery and can make the salad a bit soggy.

2. Is tamari the same as soy sauce?

Not quite! Tamari is gluten-free and slightly less salty than traditional soy sauce, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I skip the kombu dashi granules?

You can, but kombu dashi adds that signature umami depth. If you don’t have any, a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of fish sauce can create a similar effect.

4. How spicy is togarashi?

Togarashi has a mild to medium heat level, depending on the brand. If you prefer a milder salad, use just one shake or skip it altogether.

Ready to Smash and Savor?

This smashed cucumber salad Japanese style is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light snack, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Hungry for more quick and flavorful recipes? Be sure to check out our Quick Prep Recipe collection for more inspiration!