Szechuan Cucumbers

Transform your cucumber game with this irresistible recipe for Szechuan Cucumbers, a vibrantly spiced and tangy side dish bursting with bold flavors. Crisp, juicy cucumbers are smashed to absorb a savory dressing made with dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fragrant sesame oil. Toasted Szechuan peppercorns and crushed chili flakes lend an authentic and tongue-tingling kick, while garlic, scallions, and sesame seeds elevate the dish with fresh, aromatic layers. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy appetizer or side dish is perfect for adding a spicy, refreshing twist to your next meal. Serve chilled for maximum flavor impact—this is Szechuan cooking at its simplest and most delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 medium cucumbers
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 stalks scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.

Step 2

Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise and then cut them into 2-inch sections. Use the flat side of a knife or cleaver to gently smash each cucumber section to break the flesh slightly.

Step 3

Sprinkle the cucumbers with kosher salt and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 4

While the cucumbers marinate, toast the Szechuan peppercorns in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes until aromatic. Remove from heat, cool slightly, and grind into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk together the dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, crushed Szechuan peppercorns, chili flakes, minced garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Set the dressing aside.

Step 6

Drain the cucumbers and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any residual moisture.

Step 7

Place the cucumbers in a large bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss thoroughly to coat.

Step 8

Garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

Step 9

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(528.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	270.2

Total Fat 16.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2763.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 27.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.1g	0%
Total Sugars 11.8g
Protein 6.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 133.9mg	0%
Iron 2.7mg	0%
Potassium 863.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.4%

Protein: 9.5%

Carbs: 39.1%