Description
Bold and Spicy Cucumbers in Peanut Sauce is a refreshing and crunchy appetizer featuring firm cucumbers tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut sauce with a kick of chili flakes. Perfect for a quick, no-cook dish that combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors for a delicious treat you’ll crave.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 medium Cucumbers (Choose any firm variety for the best crunch and freshness.)
- 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavor and helps to drain excess moisture.)
Peanut Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium Soy Sauce (Adds umami and saltiness.)
- 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Offers a tangy pop.)
- 1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Swap with almond butter for a unique twist.)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.)
- 1 clove Garlic (Freshly minced.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Red Chili Flakes (Adjust for preferred spice level.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Introduces a subtle warmth.)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Toasted Peanuts (Chop cashews or almonds for a different texture.)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Cilantro can be an exciting alternative.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and slice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces or rounds as preferred. Sprinkle salt over the cucumber slices to draw out excess moisture and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Then, gently pat dry with a paper towel to remove the released water.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Cucumbers in Sauce: Add the prepared cucumber slices into the peanut sauce and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each cucumber piece is well coated with the spicy peanut dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted peanuts and fresh parsley over the dressed cucumbers for added texture and fresh herbal aroma. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes for a refreshing cold appetizer.
Notes
- Use firm cucumbers like English or Kirby varieties for the best crunch.
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Let the cucumbers sit with salt for 10 minutes to avoid sogginess by removing moisture.
- Fresh cilantro can be used instead of parsley for a different herbal twist.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
