Is the trend toward "Minimalism" actually increasing Cognitive Load?

In HCI research, there is a constant tension between aesthetic minimalism and functional clarity. While 'invisible' interfaces (like hidden gesture controls or hamburger menus on desktop) reduce visual clutter, they often increase the user's cognitive load by requiring them to recall hidden information rather than recognizing visible cues.

According to Nielsen’s Heuristics, 'Recognition over Recall' is vital. Does the modern obsession with clean, 'minimal' aesthetics actually hinder usability by forcing the brain to work harder to find basic functionality? At what point does a lack of signifiers turn an interface into a puzzle rather than a tool?