Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a refreshing yet bold dish that combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with the creamy, spicy kick of peanut sauce. This light salad is perfect for a quick snack, a side dish, or even as a healthy appetizer for gatherings. The contrast of textures—from the crunchy cucumbers to the smooth, slightly spicy peanut dressing—creates an irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a unique addition to your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. With its vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, it’s the ideal way to enjoy something both satisfying and refreshing.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. The cucumbers provide a cool, crisp base, while the spicy peanut sauce gives the salad a creamy, savory flavor with just the right amount of heat. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste, making it easily customizable. Whether you’re a fan of spice or prefer something milder, this recipe can cater to all preferences. Serve it on its own or alongside your favorite main dishes—it’s a simple yet satisfying way to add some flavor to your meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Crisp – The cucumbers offer a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
2. Flavor Packed – The spicy peanut sauce is creamy, savory, and just the right amount of heat.
3. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes, making it a perfect dish for busy days.
4. Healthy – Full of fresh veggies, healthy fats from peanut butter, and protein from peanuts, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
5. Customizable – You can adjust the spice level and toppings, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

Ingredients

Cucumber Salad

• English cucumbers (1.5, thinly sliced)
• Peanuts (¼ – ⅓ cup, chopped small, lightly salted)
• White sesame seeds (2 teaspoons, plus extra for garnish)
• Green onion (2-3 tablespoons, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional)

Spicy Peanut Dressing

• Creamy peanut butter (¼ cup)
• Maple syrup (2 tablespoons)
• Water (1.5 – 2 tablespoons, depending on desired thickness)
• Low sodium soy sauce (1 tablespoon)
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon)
• Rice vinegar (2 teaspoons)
• Sesame oil (1 teaspoon)

Variations

• Add Protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
• Crunchy Texture – Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for an additional crunch and color.
• Less Spice – Reduce the amount of sriracha or omit the red pepper flakes to make it less spicy.
• Herbs – Garnish with cilantro for a fresh and aromatic touch.
• More Sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the amount of maple syrup or add a bit of honey.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Start by preparing the cucumber salad. Thinly slice the English cucumbers and place them in a large bowl.

Step 2

Chop the peanuts into small pieces, ensuring they’re not too finely chopped. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds, and if desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra bit of spice.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, maple syrup, water, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of water to your preferred dressing consistency.

Step 4

Pour the spicy peanut dressing over the cucumber salad and toss gently to coat all of the cucumbers and peanuts evenly.

Step 5

Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• If you don’t have maple syrup, honey works as a good substitute to add sweetness to the peanut dressing.
• For extra crunch, top the salad with roasted peanuts just before serving.
• If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of water. For a thinner dressing, add a bit more water.
• Letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together, but it can be served immediately as well.

How to Serve

This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack or side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or fish, as well as other Asian-inspired dishes like rice noodles or dumplings. It also makes a great addition to a fresh summer salad platter or a meal prep option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some of their crunch as they sit in the dressing, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Freezing

This dish is best served fresh and is not suitable for freezing, as the cucumbers will become soggy once thawed.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold, there is no need to reheat it. Simply toss it again before serving to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, but English cucumbers are less bitter and have thinner skin, making them the preferred choice for this recipe.

2. Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peanut dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.

3. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, though creamy peanut butter is preferred for a smooth sauce, crunchy peanut butter will work fine if you prefer added texture.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes to increase the heat. You can also add fresh chili peppers if desired.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even thinly sliced radishes would work well for added texture and color.

6. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use maple syrup and plant-based ingredients.

7. Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar, honey, or brown sugar, though maple syrup adds a distinct flavor.

8. Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the cucumbers and dressing separately and refrigerate them. Combine them right before serving to keep the cucumbers fresh.

9. How can I store leftover dressing?

Store any leftover peanut dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Stir well before using.

10. Can I make this dish spicy without using sriracha?

Yes, you can use chili garlic sauce, sambal oelek, or even freshly chopped chilies for a different kind of spice.

Conclusion

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is the perfect balance of fresh, crunchy cucumbers and a bold, creamy peanut sauce. This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal snack, side dish, or light meal. Whether you like it spicy or on the milder side, this recipe is adaptable and perfect for anyone looking to try something new. Refreshing, healthy, and full of flavor, it’s a dish that will keep you coming back for more.

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