Spicy Smashed Cucumber Snack with Goat Cheese

It’s no secret that some of the best ways to enjoy cucumber as a snack is to dip it in a fresh dill veggie dip, garlicky hummus, or even tzatziki sauce.

This snack recipe, though, is my new favorite way to enjoy this refreshing, versatile vegetable. It’s got it all: hot and spicy chili oil, tangy goat cheese, and smashed cucumber that holds it all together in every crevice. It’s healthy, satisfying, and flavorful!

About the Cucumber Type

This snack recipe has smashed cucumbers! The art of smashing cucumbers is usually seen in smashed cucumber salad. The nooks and crannies created in the cucumber hold the flavorful vinaigrette, creating a delicious cucumber salad. This is precisely what happens with the chili oil in this snack, too – perfection!

I recommend using mini cucumbers for this snack recipe; they’re easy to smash and make the best serving size as a snack-for-one. Otherwise, I prefer English cucumbers because they’re seedless and slightly sweeter than American cucumbers.

How to Smash Cucumbers

Smashing cucumbers is really easy. In fact, I think it’s faster than slicing, dicing, or making sticks. Even better, if you’re having a hard day at work, just make this snack! You’ll both fight off the hanger and let out a little frustration. It’s a win-win all around.

Like smashing garlic, use the back of a chef’s knife and the palm of your hand to carefully press down on the cucumber with quick, firm pressure. Once smashed, move to another section of the cucumber.

Alternatively, you can use a large spoon, a meat tenderizer, or even the back of your hand.

Once it’s smashed, use your fingers to break apart the naturally separated pieces. I also like using the knife to cut diagonal sections and let them separate; it makes more manageable bites.

Let’s Make a Cucumber Snack!

The hard part is over; now it’s time to assemble and enjoy!

Place the cucumber pieces on a small plate or in a bowl. I recommend a sprinkle of flakey sea salt or kosher salt on the cucumber before topping; it helps bring out extra flavor. Then, drizzle on chili crisp and oil and sprinkle on goat cheese crumbles.

Buy crumbled goat cheese to keep this snack easy to make. Alternatively, it will just take a minute and some messy fingers (ok, or a fork) to crumble a goat cheese log.

I like adding cilantro as the final garnish to give it a fresh brightness. If you’re not a fan, you can omit it. Sliced green onions or sesame seeds would also be delicious additions!

All that’s left to do is grab your sunglasses and sit down on the patio to enjoy this delicious snack idea in the sunshine!

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating and review in the form below. I appreciate your feedback, and it helps others, too!