Smashed cucumber and melon salad

Indulge in the refreshing blend of smashed cucumbers and ripe melons. A culinary delight bursting with vibrant flavors and crisp textures. Perfect for a light, summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium Persian cucumbers, halved lengthwise
• 1¼ tsp. Diamond Crystal or ¾ tsp. Morton kosher salt, divided
• 2 Tbsp. unseasoned rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil
• 2 tsp. soy sauce
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1½ lb. Hami melon or firm cantaloupe or honeydew, rind and seeds removed, flesh cut into 1" pieces
• ¼ cup coarsely chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
• 1 tsp. toasted black or white sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Arrange 4 medium Persian cucumbers on a cutting board, cut side down. Use the flat part of a chef’s knife to press down on the cucumbers until they open up and the seedy pulp separates from the flesh; remove the pulp. Slice the flesh into 1" thick pieces and put them in a fine-mesh sieve placed over a bowl. Mix with ¼ tsp. of Diamond Crystal or Morton kosher salt and let it sit for 15 minutes.
2. In the meantime, combine 2 Tbsp. unseasoned rice vinegar, 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil, 2 tsp. soy sauce, 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tsp. sugar, 2 finely chopped garlic cloves, and the remaining 1 tsp. of Diamond Crystal or ½ tsp. of Morton kosher salt in a small bowl until the salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Move the cucumbers to a large bowl and discard the liquid in the bowl. Add 1½ lb. of Hami melon or a firm cantaloupe or honeydew with the rind and seeds removed, flesh cut into 1" pieces, and ¼ cup of coarsely chopped cilantro. Mix well. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle 1 tsp. of toasted black or white sesame seeds on top; garnish with more cilantro.
4. Preparation tip: The dressing can be made up to 12 hours in advance; cover and refrigerate. The salad (without toppings) can be prepared up to 3 hours ahead; cover and chill.

Summary:

• Calories: 535 kcal
• Fat: 17 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 94 g
• Potassium: 3041 mg
• Magnesium: 176 mg