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Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Irresistible Spicy Peanut Dressing - Featured Image

Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Irresistible Spicy Peanut Dressing

Learn how to make delicious Cucumber Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients — fresh, crisp cucumbers and a creamy dressing that has just the right balance of flavors. I always reach for the freshest cucumbers I can find, whether from the farmers’ market or my little garden, because their natural crunch sets the foundation for this salad. For the dressing, I use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt to keep the flavors pure and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish

If you’re not a fan of peanuts, almond or cashew butter can be a lovely substitute, though the flavor will shift slightly. For an extra crunch, adding thinly sliced red onion or shredded carrots works beautifully too.

Instructions

  1. Start by washing and thinly slicing your cucumbers. I like using a mandoline for even, crisp slices, but a sharp knife works just fine.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Add warm water a little at a time until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
  3. Toss the cucumber slices with the peanut dressing until every piece is lightly coated.
  4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the salad for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
  5. Finish with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and serve immediately, or chill for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

One tip I learned from my mom’s kitchen: always taste the dressing before tossing. Sometimes a splash more vinegar or a pinch more chili can make all the difference in bringing the flavors to life.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Cucumber Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing, recipe, cooking, food