Smashed cucumber salad

Ingredients

• About 2 pounds thin-skinned cucumbers like English or Persian (8 to 10 mini cucumbers, 4 medium-size or 2 large greenhouse)


• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for cucumbers


• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar, plus more for cucumbers


• 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar


• 2 teaspoons sesame oil


• 2 teaspoons soy sauce


• 1 tablespoon grapeseed or extra-virgin olive oil


• 2 large garlic cloves, minced or put through a press


• Red pepper flakes, to taste


• Small handful whole cilantro leaves, for garnish


• 2 teaspoons toasted white sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)