Summer Isn’t Complete Without This Crushed Cucumber Salad

A jalapeno-tomatillo dressing gives this summery cucumber salad from Yara Herrera of Hellbender in New York City a spicy kick. The craggy edges of the smashed cucumber pieces trap the dressing for a pop of flavor in every bite. Serve leftover dressing drizzled over grilled corn on the cob or leafy green salads.

Why do you salt the cucumbers?

Salting the cucumbers has two benefits. The salt draws out the excess moisture and helps the cucumbers stay crisp rather than getting soggy once tossed with the dressing. The salt also seasons the cucumbers throughout. 

What is queso fresco?

Queso fresco is a soft and crumbly cheese commonly used in Mexican cooking. If you can’t find queso fresco, cotija or even feta cheese would work as a substitute in this recipe.

Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen

When smashing the cucumbers, you want to smash them lightly, not obliterate them. The cucumbers should be cracked but still in one piece before you slice them.

Make ahead

The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Whisk the dressing well before using.