Description
Cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce: Refreshing cucumbers drenched in a fiery peanut sauce. Quick, comforting, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large English cucumbers (approximately 1.5 lbs/680g)
- 1/2 cup (120g) natural creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1–2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cool water. Using a fork, score the cucumbers lengthwise all around to create ridges on the surface. This technique not only creates an attractive appearance but also helps the spicy peanut sauce cling better to each slice. Cut the cucumbers diagonally into 1/4-inch thick slices and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, toss gently, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels and transfer them to a large serving bowl.
- Step 2: Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce While the cucumbers are draining, prepare your sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until well incorporated. The mixture will likely be quite thick at this point. Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency that will coat the cucumbers nicely. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed—add more chili garlic sauce for heat, honey for sweetness, or soy sauce for saltiness.
- Step 3: Combine and Garnish Pour about three-quarters of the prepared peanut sauce over the cucumber slices. Using tongs or two spoons, gently toss until each slice is evenly coated with the sauce. Be careful not to break the cucumber slices as you mix. Arrange the dressed cucumbers on a serving plate or shallow bowl, then drizzle the remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. If using cilantro, scatter a few fresh leaves over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is now ready to serve!
- Step 4: Serving Suggestions For the best flavor experience, let the dressed cucumbers rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve at room temperature for the most vibrant flavor profile. This refreshing cucumber appetizer works beautifully as part of an Asian-inspired meal, alongside grilled meats, or as a cooling counterpoint to spicier main dishes.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg