Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad: Freshness Meets Flavor

Name: Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad: Freshness Meets Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter (substitute sunflower butter for nut-free option); 1 clove garlic (minced; shallots are a milder alternative); 3 tablespoons just boiled water (to adjust sauce thickness); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (can substitute apple cider vinegar); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (or try honey/maple syrup); to taste unit chile crisp or oil (use according to spice preference); 2 Persian cucumbers (can substitute regular cucumbers); to taste teaspoons salt (to enhance flavor); 1 package frozen potsticker dumplings (heat as directed); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); to taste unit cilantro (optional); to taste tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts (for topping); to taste unit chile oil (drizzle for spice)

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 9 January 2026

Just imagine coming home after a long day, craving something fresh and satisfying without the hassle of a complicated recipe. That’s where my Quick and Creamy Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad with Peanut Sauce comes to the rescue! This delightful dish merges the crispy, golden perfection of potstickers with a refreshing cucumber salad, all coated in a luscious, creamy peanut sauce. It’s a customizable feast that caters to all dietary needs while being a quick weeknight meal that fits seamlessly into your family’s routine. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a show-stopping dinner on the table in no time. Are you ready to uplift your dinner game and tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive right into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why is this salad a weeknight winner?

Quick and Easy: This Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad comes together in minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Customizable Delight: With options for gluten-free and nut-free variations, everyone at your table can enjoy it, no matter their dietary needs.

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of crispy potstickers, refreshing cucumbers, and creamy peanut sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.

A Textural Sensation: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of cucumbers alongside the chewy dumplings for a delightful contrast in every bite.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to win over family and friends alike, making it an ideal option for gatherings or casual dinners.

Looking for more delicious accompaniments? Pair this dish with Smashed Broccoli Parmesan for added greens or a side of Scala Chopped Salad to complement the meal!

Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad Ingredients

For the Peanut Sauce
Smooth Peanut Butter – Acts as a creamy base for the sauce; sunflower butter can substitute for a nut-free option.
Garlic Clove – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth; shallots are a milder alternative.
Just Boiled Water – Adjusts the sauce thickness for the perfect pourable consistency.
Soy Sauce – Delivers umami flavor; tamari works well to make it gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar – Adds a necessary tang; apple cider vinegar can take its place if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; try honey or maple syrup for a natural touch.
Chile Crisp or Oil – Elevates the sauce with heat and texture; use according to your spice preference.
For the Salad
Persian Cucumbers – Provide a satisfying crunch; regular cucumbers are a perfect substitute.
Salt – Enhances flavor and draws out moisture from the cucumbers.
For the Dumplings
Frozen Potsticker Dumplings – The main protein source; heat as directed on the package.
Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying potstickers to a delightful golden-brown; any neutral oil works here.
For Garnish
Cilantro – Adds fresh flavor to the dish; feel free to skip for a herb-free option.
Toasted White Sesame Seeds or Chopped Roasted Peanuts – Optional toppings that add an appealing crunch.
Chile Oil – A drizzle on top for an extra kick of spice.

Now that you have everything you need for this stunning Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad, let’s bring it all together in blissful harmony!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare Peanut Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup smooth peanut butter and 1 minced garlic clove. Slowly add 3 tablespoons of just boiled water, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a drizzle of chile oil to taste. Set the sauce aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Make Cucumber Salad
Slice 2 Persian cucumbers into thick half-moons and gently smash them with a rolling pin or the flat side of a knife. Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and place them in a colander to rest for 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, ensuring a crisp salad that pairs perfectly with the Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad.

Step 3: Cook Potstickers
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the frozen potsticker dumplings, placing them flat-side down. Fry them for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown. Next, pour in ¼ cup of water, cover the skillet, and steam the potstickers for 3-4 minutes or until fully cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
On serving plates, layer the crispy potstickers alongside the smashed cucumbers. Generously drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over everything, ensuring each element is coated in that rich flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts, and add a dash of chile oil for an extra kick, creating a vibrant presentation for your Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad.

What to Serve with Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that harmonize beautifully with this flavor-packed dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light and fluffy texture of jasmine rice complements the richness of the peanut sauce while adding a satisfying foundation to the meal.
Fresh Spring Rolls: Crisp, fresh, and vibrant spring rolls filled with veggies add a refreshing contrast, perfectly balancing the hearty dumplings.
Mango Salad: The sweetness of mango combined with a zesty dressing enhances the vibrant flavors, making this a bright and colorful side dish.
Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy with garlic provides a deliciously tender side that’s both nutritious and flavor-packed, enriching the overall meal.
Chili Garlic Noodles: A slight kick from the noodles marries well with the nutty peanut sauce, offering an enticing blend of textures and tastes.
Green Tea: This soothing drink cleanses the palate, allowing the rich flavors of the dumplings and salad to shine through with every sip.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse adds a touch of indulgence, leaving a sweet note to round off the meal beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover dumplings and cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Peanut Sauce: Keep leftover peanut sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a good stir before using to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze leftover potstickers individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat the dumplings in a skillet with a splash of water, cover, and steam for 4-5 minutes until heated through. Enjoy them alongside your fresh salad!

Expert Tips for Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad

Heat is Key: Ensure the frying oil is hot before adding potstickers to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and prevent sticking.
Rest Your Sauce: Allow the peanut sauce to sit for a few minutes after mixing; this helps enhance the flavors and gives it a thicker consistency.
Salt Wisely: Use just the right amount of salt on the cucumbers; too much can lead to an overly salty salad. Taste as you go!
Spice It Up: Adjust the spice level in your peanut sauce according to your preference; a little extra chile oil can go a long way.
Chill Out: For the freshest taste, serve the salad slightly chilled, allowing the cucumbers to retain their crunch while perfectly complementing the warm dumplings.

Enjoy crafting your Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad with these expert tips!

Make Ahead Options

These Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad with Peanut Sauce are a dream for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the peanut sauce and the smashed cucumbers up to 24 hours in advance—just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant flavors and textures. For the cucumbers, be sure to sprinkle them with salt just before serving to prevent excess moisture from making them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply cook the frozen dumplings as directed (will take about 10 minutes), assemble your salad with the prepped components, and drizzle with the rich peanut sauce, ensuring a delightful dinner with minimal last-minute effort!

Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad Variations

Feel free to explore delightful twists on this meal to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower butter for a family-friendly alternative that still delivers on flavor.
The creamy texture remains, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version that doesn’t compromise on that classic umami taste.
You won’t even miss the soy sauce as the flavors of this dish come together beautifully.
Spicy Twist: Amp up the heat by increasing the amount of chile oil or adding freshly chopped chilies.
It’s perfect for those who crave a bit of spice and want to awaken their taste buds!
Veggie Addition: Incorporate diced bell peppers or shredded carrots into the cucumber salad for extra color and crunch.
Not only does this add nutrition, but it also elevates the overall presentation of your salad!
Different Proteins: Feel free to switch out the frozen dumplings for shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different protein experience.
Each option brings a unique flavor that can reinvent this already fantastic dish!
Creamy Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunch of cucumbers.
The avocado complements the peanut sauce in a delightful way, enhancing the whole dish.
Herb-Infused: Swap out cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a completely different herbal note.
These herbs can brighten up the dish, offering a refreshing take that you might just fall in love with!

Now, for the perfect accompaniments, consider pairing it with a refreshing side like Scala Chopped Salad or a warm serving of Smashed Broccoli Parmesan to round out your meal!

Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe FAQs

What cucumbers are best for this dish?
I recommend using Persian cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work just as well! Just be sure to seed them if they’re large and use plenty of salt to draw out moisture.

How do I store leftover dumplings and salad?
Store any leftover dumplings and smashed cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the components separate until ready to serve for the best texture!

Can I freeze the dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze your potstickers, lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, steam directly from the freezer for 4-5 minutes or until heated through.

What if my peanut sauce is too thick?
If your peanut sauce is thicker than desired, simply whisk in a little more just boiled water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. It should be smooth and creamy for easy drizzling over your dumplings and salad.

Are there any allergens I should consider?
Yes, this Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad contains peanuts and soy, which are common allergens. If you need it nut-free, substitute peanut butter with sunflower butter. To make it gluten-free, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens!

How long will the peanut sauce last in the fridge?
Your leftover peanut sauce can last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken after sitting.