Smacked cucumber salad

This is a simple yet delicious way to use (or abuse) your cucumbers. ‘Smacking’ helps break up the interior flesh to help the flavourings penetrate and combine. If you like the sound of this but want to try a fancier version, seek out Yotam Ottolenghi’s version online.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber or two small ones, ends trimmed ·
• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 2 tbsp Chinese black or regular rice wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp chilli oil

Method:

1. Take a rolling pin or cleaver and smack the cucumbers so that they split, then chop into 2.5cm pieces.
2. Put in a bowl with all the remaining ingredients and 1 tsp salt, and toss together.
3. Pop into the fridge for at least 30 mins before serving to allow the flavours to combine.