Gluten-Free Smashed Cucumber with Chili Oil

Experience a refreshing burst of flavor with these smashed cucumbers, coated in a vibrant, spicy chili oil. The crisp, cool cucumber contrasts beautifully with the savory, aromatic oil for a delightful textural and taste sensation.

Prep: 5 min Total: 25 min Serves: 4

At a glance: This easy snacks recipe yields 4 servings in about 25 minutes (5 min prep). It uses 7 ingredients — including cucumbers, chili oil, rice vinegar — and walks through 5 steps. Updated October 25, 2026. Browse more snacks recipes or return to all gluten-free recipes.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Shop links in the ingredient list are affiliate links and do not change the recipe.

Cross-Contamination Warning for Gluten-Free Smashed Cucumber with Chili Oil: When preparing this snacks recipe, chili oil and chili crisp can contain soy sauce or wheat-based seasonings, so choose one labeled gluten-free, plus rice vinegar with the same label. Smash the cucumbers on a clean cutting board.

Gluten-Free Notes for Gluten-Free Smashed Cucumber with Chili Oil: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, relying on fresh ingredients and labeled gluten-free condiments. Ensure your chili oil and any other pre-made sauces are gluten-free.

Scale Recipe:

servings

Ingredient amounts update automatically

Ingredients

Shop links on this page are for rice vinegar, sugar. Buy the package that says gluten-free. A shared production line is the usual risk with these pantry items. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Confirm the product is labeled gluten-free before you buy.

2 large cucumbers
3 tbsp chili oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar Shop
1 clove garlic, minced
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp sugar Shop
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1 Prepare the cucumbers by washing them thoroughly. Place each cucumber on a clean cutting board and, using the flat side of a chef's knife or a rolling pin, firmly smash each one until it cracks and breaks into irregular pieces. This process helps the cucumber absorb the dressing beautifully.
2 In a medium bowl, whisk together the chili oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and sugar. Continue whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the dressing is well combined, creating a fragrant and emulsified sauce.
3 Add the smashed cucumber pieces to the bowl with the chili oil dressing. Gently toss the cucumbers for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the flavorful oil and seasonings. The cucumbers should start to soften slightly and absorb the dressing.
4 Allow the smashed cucumbers to marinate in the dressing for at least 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to become tender yet still retain a pleasant crispness.
5 Transfer the marinated smashed cucumbers to a serving platter. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving. This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Nutrition (per serving)

214

Calories

Protein

16g

Carbs

12g

Fat

Fiber

216mg

Sodium

Tips & Notes

Salt the smashed cucumbers and let them drain in a colander for 15 minutes for crunchier results.
Smash the cucumbers just enough to crack them open. The rough edges soak up the chili oil dressing.
Choose a chili oil labeled gluten-free. Some chili crisps contain ingredients with gluten.

Common questions

What cross-contamination risk is specific to Gluten-Free Smashed Cucumber with Chili Oil?

Check cucumbers, chili oil, rice vinegar before they go into Gluten-Free Smashed Cucumber with Chili Oil. Chili oil and chili crisp can contain soy sauce or wheat-based seasonings, so choose one labeled gluten-free, plus rice vinegar with the same label. Smash the cucumbers on a clean cutting board.

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