Cucumbers with Spicy Peanut Sauce

This refreshing cucumber side dish combines crispy, cool cucumbers with a creamy, spicy peanut sauce that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. It takes just minutes to prepare but packs an impressive flavor punch that will make your taste buds dance.

I first made this recipe during a heatwave when I couldn't bear to turn on the stove. My family was skeptical about cucumbers as the main attraction, but they were fighting over the last pieces by the end of dinner. Now it's our go-to side dish for Asian-inspired meals.

• English or Persian cucumbers: these varieties have thinner skin and fewer seeds making them perfect for this dish
• Salt: drawing out excess moisture creates the perfect crisp texture
• Creamy peanut butter: forms the rich base of our sauce use natural unsweetened for best flavor
• Soy sauce: adds the essential umami element and balances the sweetness
• Rice vinegar: provides brightness and acidity to cut through the richness
• Honey: just enough sweetness to round out the flavors
• Sriracha or chili garlic sauce: customize the heat level to your preference
• Sesame oil: a little goes a long way in adding authentic Asian flavor
• Fresh garlic and ginger: these aromatics are non-negotiable for authentic flavor
• Sesame seeds: adds nutty flavor and visual appeal
• Fresh cilantro or green onions: for a pop of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cucumbers:

Slice your cucumbers into thin rounds or spears depending on your preference. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This crucial step draws out excess moisture which prevents watery sauce later. After resting, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.

Make the Peanut Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, combine your peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth. The sauce will be quite thick at this point. Add water one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until you reach a silky, pourable consistency that will coat the cucumbers nicely.

Assemble and Serve:

Place your dried cucumber pieces in a serving bowl. Pour the peanut sauce over the cucumbers and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or green onions. The garnishes are not just for appearance they add texture and flavor complexity.

The toasted sesame oil is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its importance after making this dish with regular vegetable oil in a pinch. The difference was remarkable! That nutty, aromatic quality from toasted sesame oil completely transforms this simple dish into something restaurant-worthy.

Perfect Pairings

This spicy cucumber dish makes an excellent companion to grilled meats, especially Asian-inspired marinades. Try serving it alongside teriyaki chicken, Korean BBQ beef, or simple grilled salmon. The cool, spicy crunch offers the perfect contrast to warm, savory proteins.

For a complete meal, pair with steamed rice and your choice of protein. The sauce from the cucumbers will seep into the rice, creating delicious flavor in every bite. This combination turns a simple side into part of a satisfying full meal.

Customize Your Heat Level

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, especially regarding spiciness. For a mild version perfect for kids or heat-sensitive palates, use just a dot of sriracha and focus on the peanut flavor. Medium heat comes from the recipe as written, while heat lovers can double the sriracha and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Remember that the spice intensifies slightly as the dish sits, so if making ahead, you might want to start with a touch less heat than you think you want.

Make It A Meal Prep Star

These cucumbers work beautifully in meal prep scenarios with a simple adjustment. Prepare the sauce and store it separately from your sliced, salted, and dried cucumbers. When ready to eat, simply toss them together for maximum crispness and flavor.

The sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can double as a delicious dipping sauce for spring rolls, grilled chicken skewers, or even as a unique salad dressing when thinned with additional water or lime juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy?

Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt and let them rest for 10 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove the excess moisture.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Swap the honey for maple syrup and ensure your soy sauce or tamari is vegan-friendly.

→ What can I use instead of peanuts or peanut butter?

You can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! Use more or less sriracha or chili garlic sauce depending on your spice preference.

→ What garnishes can I add to enhance the dish?

Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, or even mint work well, too.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Note that the cucumbers may soften slightly over time.