Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut SauceIngredients: Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that packs a punch, you’re going to love this recipe for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut SauceIngredients: It’s a fantastic combination of crisp cucumber slices coated in a rich, nutty, and mildly spicy peanut sauce that dances on your taste buds. The balance of cool crunchiness with the warmth of garlic, honey’s subtle sweetness, and just the right amount of chili flakes makes this salad irresistibly addictive. Whether you want a quick snack, a side dish, or a colorful addition to your meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up and share with friends or family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each component brings something special to the bowl—from the refreshing cucumbers to the salty and tangy sauce, they all play an important role in making this salad shine.

• 2 English cucumbers: Crisp and hydrating, their mild flavor is the perfect base for the bold peanut sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, keeping the salad crisp and preventing sogginess.
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a bright tangy note that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter: The star of the sauce, offering creaminess and a luscious nutty taste.
• 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of natural sweetness to mellow the savory and spicy elements.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, bold kick that wakes up the palate.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried red chili flakes: Gives just the right amount of heat to make things interesting without overwhelming the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle peppery warmth.
• 1/4 cup toasted peanuts, chopped: Adds satisfying crunch and reinforces the peanut flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh herbal brightness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut SauceIngredients:

Step 1: Salt and Drain the Cucumbers

Start by slicing the English cucumbers into bite-sized rounds or half-moons. Toss them with the salt and transfer to a colander, letting them drain for about one hour. This step is key because it draws out excess moisture, ensuring your salad stays wonderfully crisp and not watery once dressed.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Spicy Peanut Sauce

While the cucumbers are draining, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried chili flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk everything vigorously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This sauce is where the magic happens—its creamy texture and bold flavors will coat the cucumbers perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

After the cucumbers have drained, pat them dry with a clean towel to remove any leftover moisture. Transfer them into a serving bowl, then add in the chopped toasted peanuts and fresh parsley. Pour the spicy peanut sauce over everything and toss gently to combine. Every bite should be coated evenly with the luscious sauce.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

This dish is best enjoyed at room temperature right after tossing so that the flavors are bright and fresh, and the cucumbers maintain their delightful crunch. It’s a no-cook recipe that comes together in minutes with an hour’s hands-off prep time, perfect for a spontaneous snack or an impressive side dish.

How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut SauceIngredients:

Garnishes

Adding garnishes gives your dish an extra splash of flavor and texture. Besides the chopped toasted peanuts and parsley included in the recipe, consider sprinkling on some thinly sliced scallions, a handful of fresh cilantro leaves, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These options brighten the dish visually and add subtle layers of taste.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled meats like chicken or shrimp, offering a cooling contrast to smoky flavors. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making for a light yet satisfying meal. Alternatively, serve it with grilled flatbread or as a topping on rice bowls for a tasty twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming appetizer platter, serve the cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce in individual small bowls or on cucumber boats (using halved cucumbers hollowed slightly). You can even layer the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase its vibrant colors for an eye-catching presentation at parties or family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The cucumbers will stay crisp for up to two days, but the salad is best enjoyed fresh to retain its texture and bright flavors.

Freezing

Because cucumbers have a high water content, freezing is not recommended. When thawed, they will become mushy and lose their refreshing crunch, which is the heart of this dish.

Reheating

This salad is served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer, you can let refrigerated leftovers sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and release the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

You can, but English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin, which makes for a crisper, less bitter salad. Regular cucumbers work fine, but you might want to peel and deseed them first.

Is this dish very spicy?

The chili flakes add a gentle kick rather than intense heat. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce or omit the chili flakes, or add them gradually to taste.

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter can work well, but the flavor profile will adjust slightly. Peanut butter is classic here for its distinct nutty taste.

How long does the salad take to prepare?

The hands-on prep is about 15 minutes, with the one-hour salting and draining step included. The resting time really makes a difference in texture and flavor.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes, just swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it plant-based without sacrificing sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut SauceIngredients: is a delightful way to bring a refreshing but bold flavor to your table. It’s simple enough for a quick snack yet elegant enough for entertaining. I truly encourage you to try it and savor the crunchy, creamy, tangy, and spicy symphony that makes this salad so irresistibly delicious. Once you do, it’s sure to become a regular on your recipe rotation, bringing a bright pop of flavor and color to any meal.

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