Description
A refreshing and flavorful cucumber salad dressed in a spicy peanut sauce, combining crunchy cucumbers with a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cucumber Salad
- 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
Spicy Peanut Sauce
- 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
Instructions
- Salt and Drain Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the cucumbers to a colander and let them drain for one hour to remove excess water, which keeps the salad crisp.
- Prepare Peanut Sauce: 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 well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them into a large bowl and add the toasted chopped peanuts, chopped parsley, and the prepared peanut sauce. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the cucumbers in the flavorful sauce.
- Serve or Store: Serve the cucumber salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. If preparing ahead, cover the salad and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Before serving, bring to room temperature and toss well to redistribute the peanut sauce, which may settle at the bottom.
Notes
- Draining the cucumbers is essential to remove excess moisture and keep the salad from becoming watery.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness and make the dish healthier.
- Toasting the peanuts enhances their flavor; toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
- This salad is best consumed within 8 hours if refrigerated to maintain freshness.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: cucumber salad, peanut sauce, spicy cucumber salad, Asian salad, healthy salad, vegetarian appetizer
