Name: Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce: A Fresh, Zesty Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 medium English cucumbers; 1/2 cup Peanuts (lightly salted and chopped); 2 tablespoons White sesame seeds; 2 stalks Green onions (chopped); 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup Creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons Maple syrup (or agave nectar/honey); 1.5 tablespoons Water (adjust as needed); 2 tablespoons Low sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon Sesame oil; 2 tablespoons Extra sesame seeds; 2 stalks More green onions (for garnish)

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As I sat enjoying a balmy summer evening, I couldn’t help but admire the vibrant colors of my home-grown vegetables spilling over the garden’s edge. This inspired me to whip up something fresh and invigorating—a beautiful Spicy Peanut Cucumber Salad, perfect for those warm nights. With crisp, cool cucumbers dancing in a bold, creamy peanut dressing that carries just the right amount of heat, this dish is not only customizable but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. You’ll love how it strikes that perfect balance between a delightful snack, side dish, or even a healthy appetizer. Ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride? Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dish!

Why Try Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?

Freshness can’t be beat: This salad showcases crisp cucumbers, offering a refreshing bite that perfectly complements the creamy peanut dressing.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level with sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference, making it suitable for everyone.
Quick and Simple: Put this dish together in minutes, perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
Healthy Goodness: Packed with nutrients, this vegetarian salad is a guilt-free option to boost your diet.
Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of meals, from grilled proteins to Asian-style dishes like Fiery Chicken Ramen. Whether as a snack or side, it will shine on your table!

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Ingredients

For the Salad

• English cucumbers – Choose these for their crispness and refreshing, mild flavor.
• Peanuts – Use lightly salted and chopped for added crunch and balanced flavor.
• White sesame seeds – Great for enhancing taste and an appealing garnish.
• Green onions – Add freshness and color; chop them for garnishing.
• Red pepper flakes – Optional for an extra kick; adjust as per your spice tolerance.

For the Spicy Peanut Dressing

• Creamy peanut butter – The base of the dressing; creamy gives a smoother texture.
• Maple syrup – Adds sweetness; substitute with agave nectar or honey if needed.
• Water – Adjusts dressing thickness; start with 1.5 to 2 tablespoons based on preference.
• Low sodium soy sauce – Adds umami flavor essential for a rich dressing.
• Sriracha – Provides heat; modify the quantity to suit your liking.
• Rice vinegar – Necessary for balancing flavors and adding acidity.
• Sesame oil – Contributes a nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the dressing.

Garnish & Extras

• Extra sesame seeds – For additional garnish on top before serving.
• More green onions – A touch of freshness sprinkled on before enjoying.

Discover the delightful combination of flavors with Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Salad
Start by thoroughly washing the English cucumbers. Slice them thinly into rounds, about ¼-inch thick, and place them in a large mixing bowl. To create a delightful crunch, add the chopped peanuts, white sesame seeds, and finely sliced green onions. If you enjoy a bit of warmth, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes as desired to enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, and 1.5 tablespoons of water until smooth, using a fork or whisk to eliminate any lumps. Then, mix in low-sodium soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Continue whisking until the dressing is creamy and well combined. Adjust consistency by adding more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Drizzle the flavorful spicy peanut dressing over the cucumber salad mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss the salad to ensure every cucumber slice is evenly coated in the rich dressing. Aim to combine the ingredients without bruising the cucumbers, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine through in this refreshing dish.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce are well mixed, take a moment to plate the salad. Top off with a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for optimal freshness, or chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld before enjoying this enticing salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the spicy peanut dressing up to one week in advance; simply whisk together the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cucumber salad components can be sliced and assembled up to 24 hours ahead, but for the best texture, keep them separate from the dressing until just before serving to maintain that crunchy bite. Just before serving, toss the cucumber mixture with the dressing for a delightfully fresh and tasty salad that feels like a special treat!

Expert Tips for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Select the Right Cucumber: Use English cucumbers for their crunchy texture and mild flavor; they make all the difference in this dish.
Balance the Spice: Start with less sriracha if you’re unsure about spice levels; you can always add more later to achieve the perfect heat.
Avoid Soggy Cucumbers: Serve the salad immediately after assembly; cucumbers lose their crunch if left too long in the dressing.
Make-Ahead Dressing: Prepare the spicy peanut dressing up to a week in advance for quick salads; store it airtight in the fridge for best results.
Add Color and Flavor: Don’t hesitate to customize your salad with shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers for added nutrition and vibrant hues.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe: it’s all about personalizing each bite with your favorite flavors!

Decrease Spiciness: Use less sriracha or omit red pepper flakes for a milder dressing.
Creamy Avocado: Add ripe avocado slices to the salad for a rich, buttery texture and extra creaminess.
Crunchy Carrots: Toss in shredded or julienned carrots for a pop of color and additional crunch.
Lime Zest Boost: Grate some lime zest into the dressing to brighten the flavors even further!
Chopped Herbs: Fresh cilantro or basil can elevate your salad with aromatic notes and refreshing flavor.
Asian Noodle Twist: Add cooked rice noodles for a heartier version—mix everything with a bit more dressing for a delightful meal.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and skip the peanuts to accommodate nut allergies.
Sweet & Spicy Option: Combine sweet chili sauce with the dressing for an even more balanced flavor explosion.

For more delightful peanut-flavored treats, try these delicious options: Chocolate Peanut Butter or the indulgent Peanut Butter Cup!

What to Serve with Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that enhance this refreshing dish’s vibrant flavors.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these skewers make a hearty main that brings a satisfying contrast to the cool salad.
Sesame Noodles: A warm, flavorful option, these noodles bring an additional layer of Asian-inspired taste that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
Spring Rolls: Fresh and crisp, these rolls are a fun finger-food choice that echoes the salad’s refreshing characteristics and adds a light touch.
Steamed Dumplings: Their soft, savory filling paired with the crunchy cucumbers creates an enticing contrast in texture and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Quinoa Salad: Nutty and nutritious, this salad offers wholesome grains, making it an ideal companion that rounds out your meal while keeping it light.
Chilled Sake or Sparkling Water: Pair your meal with a glass of chilled sake or sparkling water infused with lime for a refreshing and lively drink option.
Mini Fruit Tart: For dessert, these tarts provide a sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory and spicy flavors of the salad, leaving your palate satisfied.

Each pairing adds its unique essence to your dining experience, ensuring you enjoy every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Note that cucumbers may lose their crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad, as cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing. If you have extra spicy peanut dressing, that can be frozen in small portions for future use—up to 3 months.

Reheating: The salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. If you have leftover dressing stored, stir well before using it again.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the spicy peanut dressing up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge. Combine with cucumbers just before serving for optimal freshness.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of cucumbers should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using English cucumbers for this recipe. They have a lovely crispness and mild flavor that perfectly complements the bold peanut dressing. Plus, they have fewer seeds compared to other varieties, which adds to the refreshing bite of the salad.

How should I store leftovers of this cucumber salad?
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a good sign of a delicious meal!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose their crunch over time, so it’s best to enjoy them soon after making.

Can I freeze the spicy peanut dressing?
Yes, you can freeze the dressing! Portion it into small containers or ice cube trays, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To use, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or warm it slightly in the microwave. Be sure to stir well before using, as it may separate during freezing.

What if my spicy peanut dressing is too thick?
If you find your dressing a bit thicker than you’d like, no problem at all! You can easily loosen it up by whisking in an extra tablespoon of water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to add it gradually and mix thoroughly until smooth.

Is this salad suitable for those with peanut allergies?
Oh, it’s essential to consider dietary restrictions! This salad contains peanuts and peanut butter, so it’s not suitable for anyone with peanut allergies. As an alternative, you could try sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture without the allergens. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the salad?
Very easy! You can adjust the spice level to your preference by varying the amount of sriracha or red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and gradually add more to taste. I often find that a little goes a long way, so you might want to test it as you mix. Enjoy your culinary adventure!