If you’re looking for a fresh, crunchy, and slightly spicy dish with a creamy peanut sauce, these Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are the perfect solution. This dish brings together the crispness of cucumbers with a rich, savory, and spicy peanut dressing, creating a delightful side or snack that’s both healthy and full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare and a fantastic addition to any meal, especially during warmer months.
Ingredients:
- 2 large English cucumbers, sliced about 1/3rd 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 of finely chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro if you prefer)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Slice the cucumbers into rounds about 1/3 inch thick and place them in a colander. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and stir thoroughly to combine. Allow them to rest for approximately 10 minutes to help release excess moisture.
- After 10 minutes, rinse the cucumbers with cold water and gently pat them dry using a paper towel. Set aside.
2. Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried red chili flakes, and ground black pepper until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too dense, gradually stir in a bit of water, adding 1 teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
3. Toast the Peanuts:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped peanuts for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant. Take off the heat and let it cool down before proceeding.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers with the spicy peanut sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the toasted peanuts and chopped fresh parsley over the top and gently toss again.
5. Serve:
- Transfer the cucumbers to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. You can also refrigerate the dish for 15–20 minutes if you prefer it chilled.
Conclusion:
These Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, from the cool, crunchy cucumbers to the creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce. The toasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, while the garlic and chili flakes bring the heat. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or snack, this recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a must-try for peanut lovers!