This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe is the perfect blend of fresh, crunchy cucumbers and a rich, spicy peanut dressing. Great as a side dish or a light snack, it’s suitable for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for anyone looking to impress their guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed: The creamy peanut dressing combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it on its own as a refreshing salad.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh cucumbers and nutritious peanuts, this dish is both satisfying and good for you.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the sriracha and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful cucumber salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and faster.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the cucumbers for an appealing presentation.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for slicing ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess and keeping everything organized.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the spicy peanut dressing effortlessly.
Ingredients
This refreshing cucumber salad is paired with a creamy, spicy peanut dressing that packs a punch. The perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, with a little heat from sriracha, making it a great side dish or light snack.
- 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)
- 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
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Salad
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers. Place them in a large bowl. Next:
1. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the cucumbers.
2. Add white sesame seeds and green onions on top.
3. If you like an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together these ingredients until smooth:
1. Combine peanut butter, maple syrup, water, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Adjust the water to achieve your preferred consistency—thicker or creamier as desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Pour the spicy peanut dressing over the cucumber salad:
1. Toss gently to ensure all cucumbers are coated evenly with the dressing.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving:
1. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy your delicious Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce! This vibrant dish will surely be a hit at any gathering or meal.
How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
This refreshing salad makes a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a side dish or a light snack, these cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce can elevate any meal.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with grilled chicken for a light and flavorful complement.
- Serve alongside Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki or stir-fried vegetables.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use the cucumber salad as a filling for lettuce wraps. This adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it on its own as a quick and healthy snack. The spicy peanut sauce gives it a satisfying kick.
In Grain Bowls
- Add the cucumber salad to grain bowls. It pairs well with quinoa or brown rice, enhancing the texture and flavor.
With Rice Paper Rolls
- Incorporate the cucumber salad into rice paper rolls for an exciting twist on traditional spring rolls.
How to Perfect Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
To ensure your cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce are always delightful, here are some handy tips.
- Choose fresh cucumbers: Select firm, unblemished cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference. Start small and increase gradually.
- Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes after tossing. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Use natural peanut butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar for a healthier dressing.
- Garnish generously: Extra sesame seeds and green onions not only enhance presentation but also add additional flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
When serving cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce, consider these complementary side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These seafood delights add protein and pair wonderfully with the salad’s flavors.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful veggies stir-fried in soy sauce balances the crunch of the cucumbers.
- Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice provides heartiness to your meal, making it more satisfying.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with herbs and shrimp offer a refreshing contrast to the spicy salad.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles make an excellent side, complementing the creamy dressing of the cucumber salad.
- Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame adds protein while keeping things simple and nutritious.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting addition alongside this refreshing dish.
- Tofu Satay: Skewered tofu with peanut sauce ties in beautifully with the main flavors of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Boldly over-seasoning: Adding too much sriracha or soy sauce can overpower the dish. Always start with less and adjust according to your taste.
- Ignoring cucumber selection: Not choosing fresh, firm cucumbers can lead to a soggy salad. Opt for English cucumbers as they are ideal for salads.
- Neglecting dressing consistency: If the peanut sauce is too thick, it might not coat the cucumbers well. Gradually add water until you reach your desired thickness.
- Forgetting garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions can make your dish less appealing. Always garnish for added flavor and presentation.
- Not letting flavors meld: Serving immediately may not allow the flavors to mix properly. Letting the salad sit for a few minutes enhances the taste.
- Using outdated ingredients: Old peanut butter or expired sauces can ruin your dressing. Always check expiration dates before use.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce can last up to 2 days in the fridge.
- Keep dressing separate if possible to maintain cucumber crunch.
Freezing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Freezing is not recommended for cucumbers as they lose texture.
- However, you can freeze the spicy peanut sauce separately for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce.
Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?
Yes! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even shredded cabbage for extra crunch and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
The recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients like maple syrup and peanut butter.
What should I serve with Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can reduce or increase sriracha depending on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful salad that can easily become your go-to side dish. Its refreshing crunch combined with the creamy spicy peanut dressing makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste buds!
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a vibrant, refreshing salad that perfectly balances crunchy cucumbers with a creamy and zesty peanut dressing. This dish combines the crispness of fresh English cucumbers with the rich flavors of peanut butter, maple syrup, and a kick from sriracha. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light snack, this easy-to-make salad will impress your guests with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients
- 1.5 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 – 1/3 cup peanuts, chopped small
- 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)
- 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
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle chopped peanuts, white sesame seeds, and green onions on top.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, maple syrup, water, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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