Description

This refreshing Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce recipe offers a crunchy and flavorful salad perfect for a light meal or side dish. Crisp English cucumbers are salted to remove excess moisture, then coated in a creamy, tangy peanut sauce with a hint of honey and spice. Toasted chopped peanuts and fresh parsley add texture and a herby finish, creating a balanced dish with a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

2 large English cucumbers (choose firm ones for the best texture and crunch)
1 teaspoon salt (helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for a fresh, herby finish)

Sauce

1/3 cup chopped peanuts (toasted)
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (provides umami depth)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (brings a tangy brightness)
1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy base that gives sauce its richness)
1 tablespoon honey (balances the spice)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust to spice level)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (enhances overall flavor)

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Instructions

Slice and Salt Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into your preferred shape and place them into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the cucumbers and toss well to coat evenly. This step helps draw out excess moisture, preventing a soggy salad.
Drain Cucumbers: Transfer the salted cucumbers to a colander and allow them to drain for one hour to release water and enhance crunchiness.
Prepare Spicy Peanut Sauce: While the cucumbers are draining, combine low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
Toss Salad: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them back into the mixing bowl. Add the toasted chopped peanuts, chopped fresh parsley, and the prepared peanut sauce. Gently toss all ingredients together until the cucumbers are evenly coated and the peanuts and parsley are well distributed.
Serve or Refrigerate: Enjoy the salad immediately for the best crunch and flavor, or refrigerate it covered for up to 8 hours to allow flavors to meld. If chilled, bring the salad to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.

Notes

The salting and draining step is crucial to keep the cucumbers crisp and avoid a watery dish.
Adjust the amount of dried red chili flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce; natural styles may separate and require stirring.
This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, but it’s best consumed within 8 hours for freshness.
For additional freshness, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving.