Easy Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

When I first stumbled upon this refreshing recipe for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce, I was skeptical. Cucumbers paired with peanut butter? It sounded unusual. But after one crunchy, flavorful bite, it quickly became my go-to quick and healthy snack. This easy dish is now one of my favorites for hosting casual gatherings, and guests consistently request the recipe, surprised by its simplicity and unforgettable flavor.

Perfect for beginner cooks, this easy sheet pan-style side requires no cooking, minimal prep, and offers impressive health benefits. Packed with hydrating cucumbers and protein-rich peanuts, it’s the ideal dish for anyone looking to enjoy quick and healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.

Why This Recipe is Special

This dish stands out for its bold blend of textures and flavors—crunchy cucumbers meet creamy peanut sauce with a hint of spice. It’s perfect for beginners, requiring only a few straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients. It’s also wonderfully versatile: great as a side dish, salad, or even a snack on its own.

Ingredients and Preparation

• English cucumbers: Provide refreshing crunch and hydration. They have fewer seeds and less water, perfect for salads. Regular cucumbers can also be used, but remove seeds first.
• Salt: Draws out excess moisture, ensuring a crisp bite.
• Peanuts: Offer a satisfying crunch and plant-based protein. Toasting them enhances their rich, nutty flavor.
• Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds depth and savory umami taste without excessive saltiness.
• Rice vinegar: Brightens the dish with a gentle tang and balances the creamy peanut butter.
• Peanut butter: Creates a creamy, rich sauce base and complements cucumbers beautifully. Almond or cashew butter works well, too.
• Honey: Adds subtle sweetness, balancing out spicy and savory elements. Maple syrup or agave syrup are excellent vegan alternatives.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Dried red chili flakes: Deliver a pleasant, adjustable heat that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
• Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery kick that complements the chili flakes.
• Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and color, elevating the presentation and flavor. Cilantro can also be used for an herbaceous twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the cucumbers into approximately 1/3-inch thick rounds. Place slices into a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat evenly. Move them to a colander and allow them to drain for about an hour. This removes excess water, keeping the cucumbers crunchy.

Step 2: Prepare the spicy peanut sauce by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, red chili flakes, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: After cucumbers have drained, transfer them into a clean bowl. Add toasted peanuts and chopped fresh parsley. Pour the peanut sauce over these ingredients.

Step 4: Toss gently to ensure each cucumber slice is thoroughly coated with the sauce and peanuts. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Troubleshooting: If your sauce feels too thick, add a teaspoon or two of water until the desired consistency is reached. If cucumbers become overly salty after draining, quickly rinse and pat dry before adding the sauce.
• Kitchen Efficiency: Toast peanuts in bulk and store in an airtight container to use in various recipes, saving time during meal prep.
• Tool substitution: A whisk is ideal for mixing the sauce, but a fork works perfectly fine in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance this dish by pairing it with grilled chicken, tofu skewers, or serving alongside steamed rice for a complete meal. For an extra burst of freshness, consider squeezing a bit of lime juice over the top.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. Before serving again, let it come to room temperature and toss to redistribute the sauce.

Try This Delicious Recipe Today!

Give this quick and healthy meal a try—I guarantee it will surprise and delight your taste buds! Share your experiences and personal twists in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

More Cucumber Recipes

• Easy Asian Cucumber Salad
• The Perfect Cucumber Sandwiches

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