Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Creating Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a fun way to bring a refreshing twist to any meal. Imagine cool, crunchy cucumbers paired with a rich and slightly spicy peanut sauce—it’s a match made in culinary heaven! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or even a cozy dinner at home. Plus, the bright flavors will wake up your taste buds and leave you craving more.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a dish that’s vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for sharing. This will be a crowd-pleaser, and you might just find yourself making it over and over again. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this delicious combination!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce combines vibrant, refreshing flavors with a delightful crunch, making it a perfect side dish or appetizer for gatherings. The balance of salty, sweet, and spicy elements in the peanut sauce complements the cool, crisp cucumbers beautifully. This recipe allows the cucumbers to marinate, enhancing flavor and texture while maintaining their crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Prepare for a delightful culinary experience! Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce not only satisfy your taste buds but also offer a nutritious, guilt-free option for any meal. This dish is quick to prepare, refreshing, and can be easily modified to suit various dietary preferences. You’ll love the simplicity and the burst of flavor it brings to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Preparing the Cucumbers

Sprinkle Salt on Cucumbers

Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the salt and gently toss to coat all slices evenly. This step helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your dish remains crisp.

Drain Excess Water

Transfer the salted cucumbers to a colander and let them sit for one hour. This allows them to shed some water, which keeps the final dish from becoming soggy. While you wait, you can prepare the spicy peanut sauce.

Making the Spicy Peanut Sauce

Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, measure the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended. The flavors should meld together beautifully, creating a rich sauce that will elevate the cucumbers.

Mixing Everything Together

Combine Cucumbers and Sauce

Once the cucumbers have drained, transfer them back into the original mixing bowl. Add the toasted peanuts, chopped parsley, and the prepared spicy peanut sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated. The peanuts add an extra crunch, while parsley brightens it up visually.

Serving the Dish

Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness. If you’re preparing this ahead of time, cover and refrigerate for no more than 8 hours. Before serving, bring the dish to room temperature and give it a good toss, as the peanut sauce may settle at the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a fresh side to any Asian-inspired dish. Its vibrant flavors can elevate any plate! Consider pairing it with some grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and quality peanuts ensure the best flavor.
• Adjust the spice level: Control the amount of chili flakes based on your preference.
• Make ahead: Marinate cucumbers for an enhanced flavor experience, but avoid letting them sit too long to maintain their crunch.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace honey with agave syrup for a vegan version.
• Nut-free: Swap peanuts with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.
• Add-ins: Incorporate diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, so plan to consume it within a day to maintain its texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this dish a day in advance?
Yes, but it’s best consumed within 8 hours to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers.

2. What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
You can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if necessary.

3. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness primarily comes from the red chili flakes. Feel free to adjust the quantity to match your heat preference.

4. Can I use a different type of cucumber?
English cucumbers work best for this recipe, but Persian cucumbers are a good alternative as well.

5. Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, but consume it within 8 hours for the best flavor and texture.

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is an invigorating dish that brings brightness and health to any meal. Its combination of textures and flavors ensures every bite is refreshing and satisfying. Perfect as a summer side salad or a picnic staple, this recipe can easily be customized to suit any palate. Enjoy this crunchy treat and share the joy of flavor with friends and family!

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