Crisp cucumbers and zesty radishes are smashed and tossed with fresh mint, olive oil, and tangy rice vinegar for a no-cook, hydrating side dish ideal for hot-weather outings. The smashing technique boosts crunch and lets the vegetables soak up all the bright flavors.
Servings 4servings
Prep Time 12 minutesmins
Cook Time 1 minutemin
Total Time 13 minutesmins
Equipment
Cutting board
Knife
zip bag or bowl
muddler or small pan
Ingredients
2mediumEnglish cucumbersends trimmed
5radishesthinly sliced
2tbspfresh mint leavesroughly chopped
2tbsprice vinegar
1tbspolive oil
1/2tspsea salt
1/2tspsugar
Instructions
On a sturdy cutting board, lay cucumbers and use the side of a large knife or a pan to gently smash them until they split. Cut into rough chunks.
Place cucumbers, radish slices, and chopped mint in a large zip bag or bowl.
Add rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then shake or toss vigorously to coat.
Let salad marinate for at least 10 minutes—longer for more flavor. Serve chilled or at cool ambient temperature.
Notes
This no-cook salad is a lifesaver on hot days, requires no special gear, and packs easily in a zip bag. Smash the cucumbers right before serving for maximum crunch. It keeps well in a cooler for several hours.