Name: Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Fusion
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

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing side dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, these Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are the perfect addition to your menu. Combining the crisp coolness of fresh cucumbers with the rich, tangy, and spicy complexity of a peanut-based dressing, this dish offers a bold contrast that’s hard to resist. Inspired by Asian flavors, this cucumber salad is quick to prepare, full of texture, and makes a vibrant pairing for grilled meats, noodles, or even as a stand-alone snack.

The creamy peanut butter forms the base of the sauce, while soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and chili flakes bring the umami, acidity, and heat. Chopped toasted peanuts add an extra layer of crunch and depth. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, potluck, or alongside a spicy main dish, this salad adds a cooling yet fiery punch that livens up any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Full of Bold Flavors

The rich peanut butter and soy base is enhanced by garlic, vinegar, and red chili flakes, creating a balance of savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With no cooking involved, this dish comes together in just 15 minutes—ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

3. Crunchy and Refreshing

The cool, crisp texture of cucumbers pairs beautifully with the creamy, spicy sauce and toasted peanuts for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is light.

4. Great as a Side or Snack

Serve it alongside grilled meats, noodles, or rice, or enjoy it on its own as a healthy, flavorful snack.

5. Customizable Heat Level

Easily adjust the amount of chili flakes to make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer—perfect for every palate.

Ingredients

English cucumbers (sliced about 1/3 inch thick)
Salt
Chopped peanuts (toasted)
Low-sodium soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Peanut butter
Honey
Garlic (minced)
Dried red chili flakes
Ground black pepper
Fresh parsley (chopped)

Variations

Add Protein: Turn this side into a light lunch by adding shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Use Other Nut Butters: If you’re out of peanut butter or have allergies, try using almond or cashew butter. Tahini can also work for a sesame-based twist.
Herb Substitutes: Swap parsley for cilantro, Thai basil, or mint to change the herbaceous note and better suit your dish’s pairing.
Cucumber Styles: Try spiralizing the cucumbers or cutting them into spears for a more unique texture and presentation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Slice the cucumbers into rounds about 1/3 inch thick. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, chili flakes, and ground black pepper until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of warm water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers with the sauce. Toss gently until all the cucumber slices are evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with toasted chopped peanuts and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes for an even more refreshing experience.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use English Cucumbers: Their thin skin and fewer seeds make them perfect for raw salads like this—no peeling required.
Toast the Peanuts: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Simply dry-toast them in a skillet for 2–3 minutes over medium heat until golden.
Let the Cucumbers Drain: Salting and draining the cucumbers prevents a watery salad and helps the sauce stick better.
Thin the Sauce if Needed: If your sauce is too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

How to Serve

This dish can be served in a variety of ways:

As a side dish with grilled chicken, beef skewers, or spicy noodles.
As a topping for rice bowls or lettuce wraps.
As a refreshing appetizer or small plate in a multi-course meal.
As a picnic salad that holds up well without refrigeration for a short time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release a bit of water over time, so give them a quick stir before serving again.

Freezing

This dish is not recommended for freezing, as cucumbers lose their texture and become mushy after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed! This dish is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, but peel and seed them first to reduce bitterness and excess moisture.

2. How spicy is this dish?

It has a medium heat level from the red chili flakes. You can adjust up or down to suit your taste.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled and garnish before serving.

4. Is there a substitute for soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.

5. What kind of peanut butter should I use?

Natural, creamy peanut butter works best. Avoid overly sweet or chunky varieties for a smooth sauce.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even cabbage make great additions.

7. Can I use lime juice instead of vinegar?

Yes, lime juice adds a citrusy brightness and works well in this recipe.

8. How do I keep cucumbers from getting soggy?

Salt them and let them drain for 10 minutes before mixing with the sauce.

9. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Use sunflower seed butter and omit the peanuts, or use toasted seeds instead.

10. How long will the sauce last?

The sauce can be made and stored separately in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is the kind of dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s cool, crunchy, spicy, and creamy all at once—a vibrant blend of textures and tastes that work in harmony. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish, a unique salad, or a simple snack with bold character, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s quick, versatile, and easy to make ahead—everything you want in a go-to favorite!