Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

If you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is one of my absolute favorites. It combines crisp cucumbers with a creamy, spicy peanut dressing that adds just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

What makes this cucumber salad special is how quick and easy it is to whip up. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to enjoy fresh veggies in a flavorful way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this vibrant salad ready in no time!
• Family-friendly flavor: The combination of creamy peanut sauce and crunchy cucumbers appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect as a side or snack: Enjoy it as a light side dish at dinner or as a delicious snack during the day.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the salad ahead of time, making it convenient for meal prep or potlucks.
• Customizable spiciness: Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes to suit your taste—make it mild or bring on the heat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cucumber salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

For the Salad

• 1.5 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup peanuts, chopped small, lightly salted
• 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
• 2-3 tablespoons green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

For the Spicy Peanut Dressing

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1.5 – 2 tablespoons water (adjust based on desired thickness)
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some crunch: Toss in shredded carrots or bell peppers for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Make it protein-packed: Consider adding grilled chicken or tofu to turn this salad into a full meal.
• Switch up the nuts: Use cashews instead of peanuts if you prefer their buttery taste.
• Explore different dressings: Try swapping out peanut butter for tahini for a different nutty flavor profile.

How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Salad

Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers and placing them in a large bowl. Adding chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and green onions will give your salad delightful crunches and pops of flavor. If you like things spicy, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!

Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, water, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth and creamy. It’s important to adjust the water based on how thick you want your dressing—this allows you to customize it just right!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Pour that luscious spicy peanut dressing over your prepared cucumber salad. Gently toss everything together so each cucumber slice gets coated with that deliciousness.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle some extra sesame seeds and green onions on top before serving. This little touch not only makes your dish look stunning but also adds even more flavor.

And there you have it—a delightful recipe for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce that’s sure to be loved by everyone! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Creating the perfect Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is all about attention to detail, and I’ve got some tips to ensure your salad shines!

• Choose the right cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and fewer seeds, which keep the salad light and refreshing. If you can’t find them, try Persian cucumbers as a great alternative.

• Adjust the spice level: Start with less sriracha if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later. This way, you can cater to everyone’s spice tolerance without overwhelming the dish.

• Make it ahead of time: Preparing the salad and dressing ahead of time allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to toss everything together just before serving for that fresh crunch!

• Experiment with textures: For added crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers. These ingredients not only enhance the texture but also add a pop of color!

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The dressing may thicken over time; simply add a splash of water when ready to enjoy again.

How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

This cucumber salad is not just delicious but also versatile! Here are some fun ways to present it for your next meal or gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a vibrant green touch.
• Crushed peanuts: A few extra crushed peanuts on top will enhance both taste and texture while reinforcing that nutty essence.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings for an extra zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber complements the crunchy texture while providing wholesome grains.
• Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed beans are a simple yet satisfying side that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes.
• Grilled Tofu Skewers: Marinated grilled tofu adds heartiness to your meal and balances out the refreshing cucumber salad beautifully.
• Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with veggies and herbs make for a delightful finger food option that complements your spicy peanut sauce perfectly.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish! With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s bound to be a hit at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until serving for the freshest taste.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as cucumbers have a high water content and may become mushy upon thawing.
• Instead, focus on enjoying it fresh or storing it in the fridge.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you’ve stored leftovers, simply take them out of the fridge and enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce.

Can I adjust the spice level in Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?

Absolutely! You can easily modify the amount of sriracha to suit your taste. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier kick.

How long do Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For best results, consume it within this time frame to enjoy its crisp freshness.

What other vegetables can I add to Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even thinly sliced radishes would complement this dish wonderfully while adding extra crunch and flavor.

Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! If you have allergies or simply prefer another flavor, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives that maintain a similar creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe a try! It’s not only refreshing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Making it is quick and easy, making it perfect for warm days or gatherings. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!