Fresh, crunchy cucumbers meet a creamy, nutty, spicy, and garlicky peanut sauce in this quick and refreshing dish. Perfect as a side salad, light snack, or summer appetizer, this recipe is bursting with flavor and ready to impress!
Toasting the peanuts first enhances their natural nuttiness and ensures they stay slightly crunchy even after being tossed in the sauce. Salting and draining the cucumbers keeps the salad from getting watery, so the peanut sauce stays thick and creamy.
Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, as part of a summer spread, or enjoying it on its own, this cucumber salad is refreshing, budget-friendly, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Just 15 minutes of prep and simple pantry ingredients.
- Full of Flavor: Nutty, salty, spicy, and tangy in every bite.
- Perfect for Summer: Light, crisp, and refreshing.
- Versatile: Works as a snack, side dish, or party salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large English cucumbers, sliced ⅓-inch thick
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup peanuts, chopped and toasted
- 2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar (or cider/champagne vinegar)
- 2 Tbsp peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Cucumbers:
Slice cucumbers and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt, toss, and transfer to a colander. Let drain for 1 hour to remove excess water. - Make the Peanut Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, garlic, chili flakes, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. - Toast the Peanuts:
Add peanuts to a cold stainless steel pan and toast over medium heat, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to a plate to cool. - Assemble the Salad:
Combine drained cucumbers, toasted peanuts, parsley, and peanut sauce in a mixing bowl. Toss well to coat. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Storage
- Cucumbers: English cucumbers work best since they’re nearly seedless and release less water.
- Make Ahead: If prepping ahead, refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Toss again before serving to redistribute the sauce.
- Spice Level: Reduce or omit chili flakes for a milder version.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light summer meal.
- Serve as a refreshing picnic or BBQ side dish.
- Add to Asian-inspired bowls with rice or noodles.
This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe is the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and spicy. Once you try it, it just might become your go-to summer salad
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