If you’re craving something that perfectly balances crisp freshness with a bold, nutty kick, you’ve got to try this Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe. It’s a vibrant salad that bursts with layers of flavor—from the cooling crunch of English cucumbers to the creamy, zesty peanut sauce that has just the right amount of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a refreshing snack, this recipe is a delightful way to brighten up any meal and impress your friends with something that’s both simple and sensational.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the final dish. Fresh cucumbers provide that crisp texture, while the peanut sauce ingredients add complexity and bold flavors, rounding out the entire experience.

2 large English cucumbers: Their firm, non-seedy flesh is perfect for slicing and soaking up the peanut sauce without getting soggy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps draw out moisture from cucumbers, keeping the salad crunchy.
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami depth without overwhelming saltiness.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a tangy brightness that lightens the richness of the peanut butter.
2 tablespoons peanut butter: Creamy and nutty, it’s the star that turns this dish into a flavor powerhouse.
1 tablespoon honey: Balances the spice and acidity with a soft, natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a savory punch that complements all other flavors.
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes: Provides a gentle but persistent heat.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds warmth and subtle spice complexity.
1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted: Gives a satisfying crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by slicing your English cucumbers into 1/3-inch thick rounds—think thick enough to hold their crunch but thin enough to absorb that amazing peanut sauce. Sprinkle them evenly with salt, which is key for pulling out excess water and making each bite satisfyingly crisp. Letting them rest in a colander for an hour is a little patience that pays off with perfect texture.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce

While the cucumbers are draining, whip up the spicy peanut sauce. Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, creamy peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried chili flakes, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk everything together thoroughly until smooth and well combined. This sauce is where the magic really happens—creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all at once.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

After that hour, your cucumbers will be beautifully firm and ready to soak up flavor. Transfer them back into a bowl and add toasted chopped peanuts and fresh parsley for crunch and brightness. Pour over the peanut sauce and toss gently, ensuring every cucumber slice is generously coated. The result is a stunning, flavorful salad that’s as delicious as it is colorful.

Step 4: Serve Immediately or Chill

For the best experience, serve your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe fresh so that each component retains its texture and zing. If needed, refrigerate for up to 8 hours covered, then bring back to room temperature before serving and toss to refresh the sauce distribution.

How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate both presentation and taste, sprinkle a few extra toasted peanuts on top right before serving and perhaps a light drizzle of sesame oil for a fragrant finish. Fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint can also add a lovely aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steamed jasmine rice, or even alongside some light noodle dishes. Its fresh and spicy character complements richer mains and adds a refreshing contrast on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve the cucumbers in individual small bowls or fun lettuce cups. You could even skewer cucumber slices with some sauce drizzled on the side as a vibrant appetizer at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cucumbers will stay fairly crisp for up to 24 hours, but the texture may soften after that as they continue to release moisture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad since cucumbers have a high water content and will become mushy once thawed, ruining the crisp, fresh texture that makes this dish so special.

Reheating

No reheating is needed or advised for this salad. Instead, bring it to room temperature when ready to enjoy, and give it a good toss to redistribute the sauce for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

English cucumbers are ideal because of their thin skin and fewer seeds, but if unavailable, regular slicing cucumbers can work—just peel and remove seeds to avoid bitterness and excess moisture.

Is there a substitute for peanut butter?

If you have a peanut allergy, try using almond or cashew butter for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, though it will change the overall taste slightly.

How spicy is this recipe?

The dried red chili flakes provide a gentle heat that most people find pleasantly spicy without overpowering the dish. You can always adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes! You can make it up to 8 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to toss it again before serving to freshen up the flavors and distribute the sauce evenly.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

Rice vinegar is mild and slightly sweet, so you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe is honestly one of those dishes that surprises you with its bold flavor and refreshing crunch all at once. It’s a perfect mix of simple ingredients coming together in such a satisfying way that you’ll want to make it again and again. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this amazing salad—you won’t regret bringing this fresh, spicy, and nutty delight onto your table.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

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4.4 from 83 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing and crunchy cucumber salad tossed in a spicy, creamy peanut sauce with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, enhanced by garlic, chili flakes, and fresh parsley, making it an ideal appetizer or side dish for warm weather and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cucumbers

2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
1/2 teaspoon salt

Spicy Peanut Sauce

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Toppings

1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers about 1/3 inch thick and place them in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Then transfer the cucumbers to a colander and let them sit for one hour to draw out excess water, ensuring the salad remains crisp and flavorful.
Make the Peanut Sauce: While the cucumbers are draining, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Assemble the Salad: After the cucumbers have drained for an hour, transfer them back to a bowl. Add the toasted chopped peanuts and chopped fresh parsley. Pour over the prepared peanut sauce and gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated and the toppings are evenly distributed.
Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. If preparing ahead, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Before serving, bring to room temperature and toss well as the peanut sauce may settle at the bottom.

Notes

Letting the cucumbers drain for an hour removes excess water, keeping the salad crisp.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
Toast the peanuts lightly to bring out their flavor before chopping.
For a milder version, reduce or omit the dried red chili flakes.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 8 hours.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Asian