Dessert

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

Name: Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3rd inch thick; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

ByHarry Bern October 14, 2025October 14, 2025

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Introduction

This refreshing cucumber salad is elevated by a rich and spicy peanut sauce, offering a perfect balance of crunch, heat, and savory flavors. It’s a quick and easy dish that makes a great side or a light snack on warm days.

A close-up of a bowl filled with multiple layers of thinly sliced cucumber rounds, bright green on the outsides and light green inside, covered with a creamy, chunky sauce made of crushed nuts, small red chili flakes, and sprinkled with chopped fresh green herbs. The cucumber slices glisten with the dressing, showing a mix of smooth and textured surfaces with small bits of nuts and herbs spread evenly across. The white bowl contrasts with the vibrant green cucumbers and red flakes, all set on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat well, then transfer the cucumbers to a colander. Let them drain for one hour to remove excess water.
Step 2: While the cucumbers drain, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and combined.
Step 3: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the toasted peanuts, chopped parsley, and the prepared peanut sauce. Toss everything thoroughly to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest texture and flavor. If preparing ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add thinly sliced red onion or shredded carrots.
Substitute fresh cilantro for parsley to change the herbal note.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the dried chili flakes.
Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother sauce or chunky for added texture.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. Before serving after refrigeration, bring it to room temperature and toss well, as the peanut sauce may separate and settle at the bottom.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with sliced cucumber pieces coated with a chunky, golden-brown peanut sauce mixed with red chili flakes and finely chopped green herbs scattered throughout. The cucumber slices are layered thickly, with the peanut sauce clinging to each slice, creating a textured and colorful mix of green, red, and brown. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, next to a crumpled checkered cloth in shades of white, black, and orange, with crushed peanuts and scattered herbs sprinkled lightly around the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular slicing cucumbers, but English cucumbers are preferred as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, which makes the salad more tender and less bitter.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

You can make it vegan by substituting the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar without affecting the flavor too much.