If you are looking for a refreshing salad that instantly wakes up your taste buds, the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe is a dazzling choice you’ll want to keep coming back to. Crisp cucumber slices blend beautifully with a luscious, spicy peanut sauce that balances savory, sweet, and fiery notes in every bite. This vibrant dish brings a delightful crunch and creamy texture with just the right kick, making it perfect for a quick snack, summer side, or even a light lunch. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your secret weapon for turning simple ingredients into a stunning, flavorful sensation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; every ingredient in this Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe plays a crucial role. These few staples work together to create layers of flavor, a crunchy texture, and a visually inviting dish that’s as easy to pull together as it is to eat.
- 2 large English cucumbers: Their firm texture and mild flavor form the refreshing base of this salad.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps draw moisture out of the cucumbers to keep them crisp and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter: Creates the creamy, nutty heart of the spicy peanut sauce.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Offers a touch of natural sweetness to mellow the heat and acidity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a pungent, aromatic kick that energizes the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes: Delivers the vibrant spice to make this recipe stand out.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted: Provides a crunchy contrast and an extra layer of nuttiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens every forkful.
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Drain the Cucumbers
Begin by slicing the cucumbers into 1/3-inch thick pieces and placing them into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the salt evenly and toss the slices thoroughly so each piece is coated. This salt step draws out excess water from the cucumbers, which is key to preventing your salad from getting soggy. Next, transfer the salted cucumbers to a colander and let them drain for one hour to maintain their crisp texture.
Step 2: Whisk the Spicy Peanut Sauce
While your cucumbers are draining, take a small bowl and combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture until it becomes a smooth, luscious sauce with no lumps. This simple yet dynamic sauce is the soul of the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe, marrying creamy, sweet, salty, and spicy elements into one irresistible blend.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Once the cucumbers have released their excess moisture, transfer them back into a clean bowl. Add the toasted chopped peanuts and fresh parsley for extra crunch and herbal brightness. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the cucumbers and toppings, then gently toss everything together. This careful mixing ensures that every cucumber slice is generously coated, infusing the salad with vibrant flavor and delightful texture.
Step 4: Serve Fresh for Maximum Enjoyment
The Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe is best served immediately to savor its refreshing crunch and bold flavors at their peak. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for up to eight hours. Before serving, bring the salad to room temperature and give it another toss since the peanut sauce may settle at the bottom. This simple step breathes fresh life back into the dish, making every bite equally delicious.
How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up your presentation and add extra texture, sprinkle additional toasted chopped peanuts or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint on top. A light drizzle of sesame oil or garnishing with thin slices of fresh red chili can also add an enticing aroma and vibrant color that elevates the dish.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken skewers or pork chops, and is also a refreshing complement to a noodle bowl or steamed jasmine rice. Its crisp, spicy qualities help balance richer or heavier dishes effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching appetizer, serve the cucumbers and spicy peanut sauce in individual small bowls or on a platter with edible flowers and fresh chopped scallions. You can also use the mixture as a vibrant topping for lettuce wraps or even spread it over crackers for a unique snack idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, though the cucumbers may soften slightly over time. To revive the crispness, drain any excess liquid before serving and toss gently.
Freezing
Because cucumbers have a high water content, freezing this salad is not recommended. Freezing will drastically change the texture, making the cucumbers mushy and less enjoyable once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not advised. If you want to warm it slightly, simply let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off, then give it a gentle toss to redistribute the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Absolutely! Regular cucumbers work fine, but they have more seeds and thicker skin, which might make the salad less crisp. You can peel them and remove seeds if you prefer a smoother texture.
How spicy is the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the dried red chili flakes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste, adding more if you love extra kick or less if you prefer milder flavors.
Is peanut butter the only nut butter option?
While peanut butter gives this salad its classic rich and nutty profile, you can experiment with almond or cashew butter for a different but delicious twist. Just make sure the texture is creamy to blend well with the other ingredients.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Just swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the sweetness without animal products, and ensure your peanut butter doesn’t contain added dairy ingredients.
What can I do if I don’t have rice vinegar?
Substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar—the acidity will still brighten the sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different. Adjust quantities to taste.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s bursting with fresh, lively flavors and a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and nutty, then you simply must try the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe. It’s quick, effortlessly impressive, and wonderfully versatile—great on its own or as a standout side to your favorite meals. Grab your cucumbers and dive into this delicious adventure—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This refreshing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce salad combines crisp English cucumbers with a flavorful, creamy peanut sauce infused with garlic, chili flakes, and a hint of honey. Toasted peanuts and fresh parsley add texture and a vibrant finish, making it a perfect light and zesty appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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
Instructions
- Salt the cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Transfer the cucumbers to a colander and let them sit for one hour to draw out excess water, which helps keep the salad crisp and flavorful.
- Prepare the peanut sauce: While cucumbers are draining, combine 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons peanut butter, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine and toss: After the cucumbers have drained for one hour, transfer them back to a bowl. Add 1/2 cup toasted chopped peanuts and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Pour over the prepared peanut sauce and gently toss until all cucumbers are well coated and toppings are evenly distributed.
- Serve or chill: 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
- Salting and draining cucumbers is essential to keep the salad from becoming watery.
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce consistency.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
