If you're looking for a light, yet flavorful side dish that’s packed with crunch, freshness, and a hint of heat, look no further than Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce. This dish combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creamy, spicy peanut sauce, creating the perfect balance of flavors. It’s a quick and easy way to transform everyday cucumbers into a vibrant side that’s ideal for any occasion.
Whether you're enjoying it as a light appetizer, a healthy snack, or a unique side dish for your main course, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With the rich and savory flavor of peanut butter, combined with a touch of spice and a splash of acidity, this dish is the perfect fusion of taste and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Refreshing & Crisp – The cool cucumbers are the perfect contrast to the spicy sauce.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes!
✔ Flavorsome – The peanut sauce is creamy, spicy, and tangy, making each bite irresistible.
✔ Healthy – Packed with cucumbers, which are hydrating, and peanut butter, which offers a dose of healthy fats and protein.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your preference and add your favorite herbs or toppings.
✔ Great as a Side or Snack – Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick snack.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- Cucumbers – 2 large, sliced into thin rounds
- Carrot – 1 medium, julienned (optional for extra crunch)
- Fresh cilantro – 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
- Chopped peanuts – 1 tablespoon (optional for garnish)
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- Peanut butter – 3 tablespoon (smooth or crunchy)
- Soy sauce – 1 tbsp
- Rice vinegar – 1 tbsp
- Honey or agave syrup – 1 teaspoon (for a touch of sweetness)
- Sesame oil – 1 tsp
- Sriracha sauce – 1-2 teaspoon (depending on your spice tolerance)
- Garlic, minced – 1 clove
- Ginger, minced – 1 tsp
- Warm water – 2-3 tablespoon (to thin the sauce, if needed)
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and peel the cucumbers (optional, depending on your preference for the skin).
- Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons. If you prefer, you can also cut them into matchsticks for a different texture.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
- Whisk everything together until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy, slightly thick, and pourable.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
- In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers (and carrots, if using).
- Pour the spicy peanut sauce over the cucumbers. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for an added crunch.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
🥗 As a Salad: Toss it with mixed greens or add edamame and avocado for a heartier salad.
🍢 With Grilled Meats: Pair it with your favorite grilled meats or skewers for a perfect BBQ side.
🍷 Pair with a Drink: Enjoy with a refreshing glass of iced green tea, sparkling water, or a light white wine.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values may vary based on ingredient choices.)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
🥒 Slice the Cucumbers Thinly: The thinner the slices, the better they absorb the peanut sauce, and the more flavorful the salad becomes.
🔥 Adjust the Heat: If you want it spicier, add more sriracha sauce. If you prefer a milder version, reduce or omit the sriracha entirely.
🍯 Sweetness: If you like a bit more sweetness to balance the heat, increase the honey or agave in the sauce.
🌿 Herb Variations: Add mint or basil along with the cilantro for a different flavor profile.
🥜 Extra Crunch: For added texture, top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds.
How to Store & Make Ahead
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the spicy peanut sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Toss with the cucumbers just before serving.
- Storage: This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep in mind that cucumbers will release some water, making the sauce thinner. For best results, serve within a day of making.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! You can add other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or shredded cabbage for extra texture.
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use vegan peanut butter and soy sauce.
Q: Can I make the peanut sauce spicier?
Definitely! Add more sriracha or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick of spice.
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