Smacked Cucumber in Garlicky Sauce

We have a major overabundance of cucumbers in our garden right now! We shared some with a friend, and she in turn shared this excellent recipe with us.  "Smacked cucumber" sounds a little strange, but it is really delicious with wonderful flavor.  Perhaps our cucumber was on the small side, since I had about twice as much sauce as I needed; I simply saved it and will make the recipe again this week.  Makes for a fantastic side dish alongside stir fry.

Smacked Cucumber in Garlicky Sauce (adapted from Every Grain of Rice)

Serves 2-3

1 cucumber

1/2 tsp salt

1-1/2 T vegetable oil

1 T minced garlic

1/2 tsp sugar

2 tsp soy sauce

1/2 tsp Chinkiang vinegar (or sub balsamic vinegar)

1/2 tsp chile garlic sauce

1. Lay the cucumber on a chopping board and smack a few times with the flat blade of a sharp knife or a rolling pin.

2. Cut lengthwise into four pieces, and scrape out seeds if there are lots of seeds.  Cut the cucumber into diagonal slices.

3. Place the cucumber in a bowl with the salt, toss to combine, and set aside for 10 minutes.

4. Stir together all the other ingredients in a small bowl.

5. Drain the cucumbers.  Add about half the sauce, and stir to combine.  Taste and add more if you like, or save to make the recipe again later -- will depend on the size of your cucumber.

6. Serve immediately.