If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that completely wakes up your palate, these 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick), tossed in a spicy peanut sauce will do the trick beautifully. The crisp, cool cucumbers soak up the creamy, savory peanut dressing enhanced by a sweet hint of honey and a kick of chili flakes, making every bite a delightful balance of textures and flavors. This simple yet vibrant recipe brings both a cooling crunch and a spicy zing that’s perfect for a quick snack, side dish, or the star of a light lunch.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, but each one plays an important role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in this dish. The cucumbers add crisp freshness, the peanut butter and toasted peanuts bring a rich nuttiness, and the combination of spices and seasonings provide the punch that keeps your taste buds dancing.

2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick): The star ingredient for crisp, refreshing crunch and ideal cucumber thickness to soak up the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, keeping the dish from getting soggy.
1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted: Adds texture and a deep roasted flavor that complements the creamy peanut sauce.
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides savory umami without overpowering the other flavors.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Injects a subtle tanginess that brightens the entire salad.
2 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth or crunchy): Gives the sauce its creamy, nutty base essential for mouthfeel.
1 tablespoon honey: Balances the heat and saltiness with a touch of natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of aromatic savoriness, essential for depth.
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste): Delivers a spicy heat that will gently warm your palate.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle spice and complexity.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, vibrant green color and herbal brightness.

How to Make 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick)

Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers

Start by slicing your 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick) to get that perfect thickness which keeps the texture crisp but tender enough to absorb the sauce. Toss them with salt in a large bowl to gently draw out excess water, then place them in a colander to drain for an hour. This step is vital because it prevents the sauce from becoming diluted and stops the cucumbers from turning soggy.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Spicy Peanut Sauce

While the cucumbers drain, mix up your sauce for maximum flavor impact. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper. This luscious mixture brings together creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that will coat each slice beautifully.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

After your cucumbers have drained, transfer the 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick) to a large bowl. Add the sauce, toasted peanuts, and fresh parsley, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. The contrast of crunchy peanuts and tender cucumber with that bold peanut sauce is absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick)

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional chopped toasted peanuts or a few fresh parsley leaves on top right before serving for an extra touch of texture and color. A tiny drizzle of chili oil or a few fresh chili slices can ramp up the spice for those who enjoy a bolder kick, while a squeeze of lime wedges adds zesty brightness that brightens the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This cucumber and peanut salad pairs wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, seafood, or tofu, providing a crisp and cooling counterpoint to richer main dishes. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice or alongside light noodle bowls for a complete and refreshing meal that never feels heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching appetizer, serve the 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick) neatly arranged on a platter with small dollops of the peanut sauce between slices or in a dipping bowl on the side. You can also stuff the sauce between cucumber slices to create mini sandwiches that pack a punch in bite-sized form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. Because cucumbers release moisture over time, it’s best to toss the salad again just before serving to refresh the texture and redistribute the sauce evenly.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The high water content in the 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick) will break down the texture upon thawing, resulting in a mushy, watery salad that loses its crisp charm.

Reheating

This dish is designed to be served cold or at room temperature to preserve the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors. Therefore, reheating is not necessary nor recommended as it will compromise the delightful contrast of textures.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

You can, but English cucumbers are preferable because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, giving the salad a more delicate texture and less bitterness.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat comes from the dried red chili flakes and can be adjusted easily to your preference — add more for a bolder kick or reduce them for a milder, more approachable flavor.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The peanut sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully; just whisk it again before tossing with cucumbers.

What if I prefer crunchy peanut butter?

Crunchy peanut butter works just as well and adds an extra dimension of texture to the sauce, complementing the toasted peanuts nicely.

Is this recipe vegan?

The recipe can be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

This dish featuring 2 large English cucumbers, sliced (about 1/3-inch thick) tossed in a spicy peanut sauce is a delightful way to embrace vibrant, bold flavors while keeping things light and refreshing. Whether you serve it as a quick snack, an impressive side, or a vibrant appetizer, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for warm weather or anytime you crave something both nourishing and exciting. Give it a try and enjoy that crisp, spicy, creamy combo that keeps you coming back for more!

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