Description
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a refreshing and bold side dish that combines the crisp crunch of cucumbers with a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy peanut sauce. This dish is a perfect balance of fresh, savory, and spicy flavors. The cucumbers provide a cool, hydrating crunch, while the peanut sauce adds depth with its nutty richness and a hint of heat. It’s a fantastic appetizer, snack, or a light side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a casual day, this dish will elevate your meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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2 large cucumbers
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3 tbsp peanut butter (preferably smooth)
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp sriracha (or more for extra heat)
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1 tbsp lime juice
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
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1–2 tbsp water (to adjust sauce consistency)
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Crushed peanuts (for garnish)
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Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
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Sesame seeds (for garnish)
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Salt to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumbers:
Wash and peel the cucumbers. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons. For a more decorative look, you can cut them into matchsticks or use a spiralizer to make cucumber noodles. -
Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired sauce consistency—smooth and pourable. -
Combine Cucumbers and Sauce:
In a large bowl, toss the cucumber slices with the spicy peanut sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Garnish and Serve:
Top the cucumbers with crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately or let it sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
Adjusting Heat: Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
Peanut Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more water or lime juice.
Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a salad. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes.
Storage: Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The cucumbers are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking involved)
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: No-cook, Toss
- Cuisine: Asian, Fusion
Keywords: Cucumber salad, spicy peanut sauce, cucumber side dish, Asian cucumber salad, peanut sauce, vegan cucumber salad, healthy cucumber appetizer