Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
If you’re looking for a dish that’s refreshing, vibrant, and oh-so-delicious, let me introduce you to my beloved Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce. This recipe is not just a salad; it’s a delightful combination of crisp cucumbers and a creamy peanut dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick or for family gatherings where you want to impress your loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen.
This cucumber salad has become a staple in my home. The spicy peanut sauce brings a delightful kick that complements the cool crunch of the cucumbers beautifully. Whether you serve it as a side dish, snack, or even light lunch, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic days.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy cucumbers and creamy sauce, making it an excellent choice for all ages.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even as part of your meal prep for the week!
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy peanut sauce with fresh cucumbers creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce. You’ll find everything here easy to work with and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 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
Variations
One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Add some crunch: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added texture and color.
- Make it zesty: Squeeze in some lime juice or add lime zest to brighten up the flavors.
- Include protein: For a heartier dish, mix in grilled chicken or tofu cubes.
- Change up the nuts: Substitute peanuts with cashews or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber Salad
Start by thinly slicing those beautiful English cucumbers. Place them in a large bowl where they can shine! Next, sprinkle over chopped peanuts, white sesame seeds, and green onions. If you’re feeling adventurous and like things hot, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes! This step is essential because it sets up that crunchy foundation we all love.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Dressing
In another bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, water (to adjust thickness), soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth and creamy. This dressing is where the magic happens! The balance between sweet and spicy will make your taste buds dance. Adjusting the water helps you get your preferred consistency—smooth enough to coat but thick enough to cling.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Now comes the fun part! Pour that luscious spicy peanut dressing over your cucumber mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly so every cucumber slice gets coated with that irresistible dressing. This step ensures each bite is full of flavor!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, don’t forget to garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions! Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also enhances the crunch factor. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or chill it briefly if you prefer it cold.
Enjoy your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table too!
Pro Tips for Making Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Making this dish is simple, but a few helpful tips can elevate your cucumber salad to perfection!
- Choose the right cucumbers: Using English cucumbers not only enhances the crunchiness but also minimizes seeds, resulting in a fresher taste.
- Whisk the dressing thoroughly: Ensuring that your peanut sauce is well combined creates a smoother texture that clings beautifully to the cucumbers, enhancing each bite.
- Adjust spice levels to your taste: Start with less sriracha and gradually add more if you prefer extra heat; this allows you to customize the dish for everyone at the table.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together, making each bite even more delicious.
- Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try additional toppings such as shredded carrots or edamame for added color and nutrition!
How to Serve Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
This refreshing salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.
Garnishes
- Chopped cilantro: Adds a fragrant touch that brightens up the flavors of your salad.
- Sliced red chili: For an extra pop of color and a spicy kick, thinly slice fresh red chili and sprinkle over the top.
- Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty splash of flavor as they please.
Side Dishes
- Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs makes for a great companion that complements the cucumber salad’s freshness.
- Grilled Tofu Skewers: Marinated tofu skewers offer protein and heartiness that balance out the crispness of your cucumber dish.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A vibrant medley of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and nutrients while maintaining an Asian-inspired theme.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with vermicelli noodles and veggies provide a fun way to enjoy a light meal alongside your cucumber salad.
Now you’re all set to enjoy Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce—whether as a snack or part of a larger meal! Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stays fresh, making it a delightful addition to your weekly meals or gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it longer to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
Freezing
- This recipe is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of cucumbers once thawed.
- Instead, prepare only what you’ll eat within a few days for the best taste and crunch.
Reheating
- There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s best served cold.
- If you prefer a warm dish, consider using steamed vegetables alongside the spicy peanut sauce instead.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this refreshing recipe!
Can I make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for sriracha in Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use chili paste or simply reduce the amount of sriracha. Alternatively, try adding a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste!
How do I adjust the thickness of the peanut dressing?
You can easily adjust the thickness by adding more water if it’s too thick or more peanut butter if it’s too thin. Just whisk until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there alternatives to peanuts for this salad?
Yes! If you’re allergic or want a different flavor, try using sunflower seeds or cashews as a substitute for peanuts.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making this vibrant Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce! It’s such a delightful dish that brings together crunchy textures and creamy flavors with just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a quick snack at home, this salad is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crunchy texture of fresh cucumbers with a creamy, flavorful peanut dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this salad can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up something quick yet impressive. The spicy peanut sauce adds a delightful kick that enhances the coolness of the cucumbers, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Whether you serve it as a side dish, snack, or light lunch, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1.5 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 – 1/3 cup lightly salted peanuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes, green onions, sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Slice the English cucumbers and place them in a large bowl.
- Add chopped peanuts and sprinkle with green onions and optional red pepper flakes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, maple syrup, water (to adjust thickness), soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat all cucumber slices evenly.
- Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
