Preparation

Smashing cucumbers isn't just therapeutic—it creates craggy edges that grab onto dressing better than neat slices ever could. The addition of peanut butter might seem odd, but it creates a creamy, nutty coating that makes this salad feel substantial enough to be a meal.

Preparation

1. Place each cucumber on a cutting board and use the flat side of a cleaver, heavy knife, or the bottom of a skillet to firmly smash them until they crack and flatten (but don't turn to mush).
2. Tear or roughly chop the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and place in a serving bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth (add another tablespoon of water if needed to reach a pourable consistency).
4. Pour the peanut dressing over the cucumbers and toss well.
5. Drizzle with chili crisp and serve immediately, or let it sit for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

The texture is everything here: cool, crunchy cucumber against creamy, spicy peanut sauce. It's a side dish that routinely steals the show.