Smashed Cucumber

This recipe is from the Allrecipes site.  It's really easy to make, so just right for me. 

Ingredients

2 English cucumbers

1 teaspoon white sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed

2 cloves garlic, finely crushed

2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

red pepper flakes to taste

2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

• Step 1

  Wrap each cucumber in plastic wrap to minimize splattering. Place on a work surface and pound with a flat object (like a meat pounder) until cucumbers crack and are slightly flattened. Remove from plastic. Cut cucumbers in half; halve each side lengthwise. Slice into 1- to 1 1/2 -inch wide slices. Transfer to a strainer set over a bowl.

• Step 2

  Sprinkle cucumber with sugar and salt; mix until well combined. Refrigerate bowl and strainer for 30 to 60 minutes so cucumber pieces can drain into the bowl.

• Step 3

  Place garlic, seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Whisk together thoroughly.

• Step 4

  Transfer drained cucumbers into bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.

• Step 5

  Place cucumbers in serving bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Chef's Note:

In place of seasoned rice vinegar you can use plain rice vinegar and add an extra pinch of salt and sugar to the dressing.