Crushed Cucumber and Salmon Salad

Light, zesty, and packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors, this Crushed Cucumber and Salmon Salad is your new go-to for a refreshing, protein-rich meal. With juicy chunks of cucumber, sweet red bell pepper, and smoky flakes of salmon tossed in a punchy dressing of lime, fish sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar—this dish hits every note: tangy, savory, and just a little nutty.

Crushing the cucumber, rather than slicing it cleanly, releases more juice and texture, allowing it to soak up the flavorful dressing even better. The hot smoked salmon adds richness and a satisfying depth, while fresh coriander brings a bright, herbal lift to the whole dish.

Perfect for warm weather lunches, light dinners, or even meal prep, this salad is as nourishing as it is crave-worthy.

Ingredient Benefits

Red Bell Pepper
Naturally sweet and crunchy, red bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C—more than an orange! They’re also a great source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A for healthy vision and immune function.

Cucumber
Hydrating and crisp, cucumbers are low in calories and high in water and antioxidants. Crushing them helps release their natural juices, making the salad more flavorful and aiding digestion.

Garlic
Thinly sliced garlic adds a savory bite and offers health benefits including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its active compound, allicin.

Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)
Coriander adds a burst of freshness and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin K, and compounds that may help detoxify the body and support digestion.

Hot Smoked Salmon
A flavorful source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, smoked salmon supports brain health, heart function, and inflammation reduction. It’s also rich in B vitamins and selenium.

Dressing Ingredients

Lime Juice
Bright and tangy, lime juice adds a fresh kick and is packed with vitamin C, which supports immune health and enhances the flavors of the salad.

Fish Sauce
A little goes a long way—this umami-packed condiment adds deep, savory richness and provides essential amino acids and small amounts of B vitamins.

Rice Wine Vinegar
Mild and slightly sweet, it helps balance the flavors and supports digestion while giving the dish a gentle tang.

Sesame Oil
Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants like sesamin, sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and supports heart health and anti-inflammatory responses.

Black Sesame Seeds
These tiny seeds are nutrient powerhouses—packed with calcium, magnesium, iron, and healthy fats. They add crunch, visual contrast, and a boost of minerals.