At Redbloom Health, we love a recipe that breaks the rules. Our Sausage Salad takes the smoky, hearty flavor of Polish sausage and gives it a vibrant, Sichuan-style makeover. The richness of the sausage is perfectly balanced by the sharp acidity of black vinegar and the refreshing crunch of smashed cucumbers.
This dish is a fantastic way to transform a refrigerator staple into a gourmet, high-protein appetizer. Whether you are hosting a game night or just want a quick dinner that packs a punch, this sweet, savory, and spicy combination is guaranteed to satisfy.
Quick Overview
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 310 per serving
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Servings: 3
Ingredients
The Base:
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12 oz Polish Sausage, sliced into bite-sized coins
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1 Large Cucumber, smashed and chopped
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1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup Roasted Peanuts, for crunch
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1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
The Redbloom Dressing:
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3 Cloves Garlic, minced
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2 tbsp Redbloom Chili Crisp
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2 tbsp Soy Sauce
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1.5 tbsp Black Vinegar (for that signature smoky tang)
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1 tsp Sesame Oil
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1 tsp Sugar
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A pinch of Salt
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Skillet or frying pan
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Large mixing bowl
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Chef’s knife
Method
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the sliced Polish sausage coins for 3–5 minutes until they are browned and slightly crisp on the edges. This releases the smoky fats that will eventually mingle with our dressing. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: The Smashed Cucumber
Place your cucumber on a cutting board and give it a firm "smack" with the flat side of your knife until it cracks. Chop into irregular, bite-sized pieces. The rough edges are perfect for "trapping" the chili crisp and vinegar.
Step 3: Whisk the Aromatic Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, Redbloom Chili Crisp, soy sauce, black vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 4: Combine the Salad
Add the seared sausage, smashed cucumbers, and sliced onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss thoroughly so the warm sausage begins to soak up the vinegary sauce.
Step 5: The Final Touches
Fold in the fresh cilantro and top with the roasted peanuts. The combination of warm sausage and chilled cucumbers creates a temperature contrast that is incredibly refreshing.
Conclusion
This Sausage Salad is proof that bold flavors can be found in the most unexpected pairings. The smoky depth of the Polish sausage meets the zesty, tingly heat of our Redbloom dressing for a meal that is as filling as it is delicious. It’s a rustic, satisfying dish that brings a whole new meaning to "meat and potatoes"—without the potatoes!
