If you’re on the lookout for a refreshing and delightfully bold salad, the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Crisp, cool cucumber slices get a thrilling makeover with a creamy, spicy peanut sauce that’s equal parts tangy, sweet, and savory. The crunch of toasted peanuts and the bright hint of fresh parsley lift this simple dish into something truly special. It’s a perfect side or light snack that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each bringing its own magic. From the refreshing crunch of cucumbers to the rich creaminess of peanut butter and the kick of chili flakes, every component works together to create a perfectly balanced dish.
- 2 large English cucumbers: Their firm texture and mild flavor make them ideal for soaking up the spicy peanut sauce without becoming soggy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for drawing out cucumber moisture and maintaining crunch.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami depth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that brightens the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter: Creates a creamy, rich base that binds the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Offers just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spice.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic zest.
- 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes: Delivers a gentle heat to make each bite exciting.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted: Provides an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers a refreshing herbal note and vibrant color.
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Begin by slicing the cucumbers about 1/3 inch thick for the perfect bite. Sprinkle them evenly with salt and give them a gentle toss to ensure every slice is coated. This step is crucial as it draws out excess water from the cucumbers, which keeps your salad crisp and prevents it from getting watery. Let them rest in a colander for one hour so they can release that moisture.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
While your cucumbers are resting, it’s time to whip up the flavorful peanut sauce. Combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, creamy peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a luscious, smooth sauce that will perfectly coat the cucumbers with a spicy, creamy finish.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
After the cucumbers have drained, gently transfer them back into a mixing bowl. Add the toasted, chopped peanuts for an exciting crunch and the fresh parsley for a pop of color and fragrance. Pour your spicy peanut sauce over the salad and toss lightly until all the cucumber slices are beautifully coated and the toppings are evenly distributed, ensuring every forkful is full of flavor.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
For the best experience of textures and flavors, serve your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe as soon as it’s assembled. If you’re making this ahead for a gathering, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 8 hours, but bring it back to room temperature and give it a good toss before serving, as the sauce tends to settle.
How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can elevate your dish with an extra layer of freshness. Sprinkle additional toasted peanuts on top for a more intense crunch, or add thinly sliced red chilies if you want to turn up the heat visually and flavor-wise. A drizzle of sesame oil also complements the peanut sauce beautifully, giving it a toasty aroma.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making a light but satisfying meal. It’s also excellent alongside steamed rice or cold noodles for a quick, flavorful lunch. If you’re serving a spread of Asian-inspired dishes, this salad adds a refreshing contrast that balances out richer, heavier flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in small lettuce cups or hollowed-out cucumber boats. You can also turn it into a sandwich spread by layering it between slices of toasted bread or buns with some fresh greens. For parties, consider serving the salad on individual spoons or in mini bowls for easy, elegant bites that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep well for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly, but giving the salad a gentle toss before serving will refresh the texture and redistribute the sauce flavors.
Freezing
Due to the fresh cucumbers and creamy peanut sauce, freezing this salad is not recommended as it may cause the texture of the cucumbers and consistency of the sauce to degrade upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary or advised. Simply bring chilled leftovers to room temperature and toss gently before enjoying. This will enhance the flavor and make the sauce coating feel fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cucumber for this recipe?
Yes, although English cucumbers are ideal because of their thin skin and fewer seeds, you can substitute with regular cucumbers. Just remove the seeds to avoid excess water in the salad.
Is the Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe very spicy?
The dish has a gentle heat primarily from the dried red chili flakes. You can adjust the amount to your liking or omit them entirely for a milder version.
Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut or seed butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can work nicely, though it will subtly change the flavor profile. Just make sure to use a creamy variety to achieve the best sauce consistency.
How long should I let the cucumbers drain?
One hour is perfect for drawing out enough moisture to keep the salad crisp and flavorful. If you’re short on time, at least 30 minutes will still yield good results, but longer is better.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
For sure! Thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or radishes can add color and crunch. Just be mindful of how much moisture they contribute to keep the salad from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a new salad to impress friends or a quick, satisfying snack, this vibrant recipe is a wonderful addition to your kitchen repertoire. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe combines crisp English cucumbers with a flavorful, creamy peanut sauce infused with soy, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and chili flakes. Topped with toasted peanuts and fresh parsley, it makes a delightful, crunchy salad perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Cucumber
- 2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss well so that all slices are coated evenly. Transfer the cucumbers to a colander and let them sit for one hour to draw out excess water, ensuring a crisp and flavorful salad.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: While the cucumbers are draining, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble the Salad: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them back to a bowl. Add the toasted chopped peanuts and chopped parsley, then pour the prepared peanut sauce over. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated and the toppings are well distributed.
- Serve or Store: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy 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
- For extra crunch, you can lightly toast the peanuts in a dry skillet until golden before chopping.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the dried red chili flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or omit entirely.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated up to 8 hours. Toss before serving to redistribute the sauce.
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for a healthier sauce.
- English cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds, which work best for this recipe, but regular cucumbers can be used if peeled and seeded.
