Smashed Cucumber Salad with Pomegranate Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smashed Cucumber Salad with Pomegranate Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that blends crisp cucumbers with a sweet-tart pomegranate dressing. The smashing technique enhances the texture and allows the cucumbers to soak up all the flavors. It’s perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or a colorful addition to any dinner table. The burst of juicy pomegranate seeds adds visual appeal and a satisfying crunch.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

English cucumbers
pomegranate seeds
fresh mint leaves
rice vinegar
pomegranate molasses
olive oil
garlic
honey
salt
black pepper
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

Wash and pat dry the cucumbers. Place them on a cutting board and use the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin to gently smash them until they split open.

Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them drain for about 15–20 minutes to remove excess water.

Meanwhile, prepare the dressing by whisking together pomegranate molasses, rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

Pat the cucumbers dry and place them in a serving bowl.

Drizzle the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to combine.

Top with fresh mint leaves and a generous handful of pomegranate seeds.

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Draining and marinating time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Add thinly sliced red onions or shallots for extra flavor.
Use balsamic vinegar in place of rice vinegar for a deeper taste.
Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Substitute parsley or cilantro for mint, depending on your flavor preference.

storage/reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Note: The cucumbers may continue to soften over time, but the flavors will deepen.
This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Why smash the cucumbers instead of slicing?

Smashing breaks down the cucumber structure, making it more absorbent to the dressing and giving it a unique, rustic texture.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English?

Yes, but remove the seeds and peel if the skin is tough or waxy.

Is pomegranate molasses necessary?

It provides a unique sweet and tangy flavor. If unavailable, reduce pomegranate juice with a bit of sugar to make a quick substitute.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed within a few hours of making to preserve the cucumbers’ crunch.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, as long as you substitute maple syrup or agave for honey.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to make it more filling.

Can I skip the garlic?

Yes, but garlic adds depth to the dressing. Roasted garlic is a milder alternative.

Conclusion

Smashed Cucumber Salad with Pomegranate Dressing is a simple yet elegant dish packed with bold flavors and crisp textures. It’s ideal for warm-weather meals, holiday spreads, or anytime you want a healthy, refreshing salad with a twist. This recipe is quick to make and guaranteed to impress with its colorful presentation and irresistible taste.

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