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Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

4.4 from 115 reviews

A refreshing and spicy cucumber salad tossed in a creamy, flavorful peanut sauce, perfect as a light appetizer or side dish. This recipe combines crunchy cucumbers with a vibrant blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes for a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Cucumber and Garnish

  • 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Peanut Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the English cucumbers into approximately 1/3-inch thick pieces. Place the slices in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the salted cucumbers to a colander and let them drain for one hour to remove excess water, ensuring a crisp final salad.
  2. Make the peanut sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This sauce provides a creamy, tangy, and spicy dressing for the salad.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them back into a large mixing bowl. Add the toasted chopped peanuts, chopped fresh parsley, and the prepared peanut sauce. Toss all ingredients thoroughly to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce and garnished with peanuts and parsley.
  4. Serve: Serve the cucumber salad immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate the salad for up to 8 hours if prepared ahead of time. Before serving chilled salad, bring it back to room temperature and toss gently again to redistribute the sauce.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of dried red chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Toasting the peanuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.
  • Allowing cucumbers to drain reduces excess moisture, preventing a watery salad.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 8 hours.

Keywords: cucumber salad, peanut sauce, spicy cucumber salad, Asian salad, no-cook salad, peanut butter dressing