Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are like a party for your taste buds. Imagine crunching into those cool, crisp cucumbers while the spicy, nutty sauce dances on your palate—it’s a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and mouthwateringly delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a summer BBQ or enjoying it as a late-night snack, this dish is sure to impress everyone who tries it. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
I still remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe at a potluck dinner. The moment I tasted those cucumbers enveloped in spicy peanut goodness, I knew my life was forever changed. It was love at first crunch! There’s something special about combining fresh produce with bold flavors that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Get ready to whip up this incredible dish and wow your friends and family!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The balance of spicy and nutty flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Visually, the bright green cucumbers against the rich sauce make for an eye-catching dish.
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or side dish, it’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cucumbers: Look for firm, fresh cucumbers; they should be crispy and free of blemishes for the best crunch.
- Peanut Butter: Choose creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the cucumbers.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
- Rice Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- Sriracha Sauce: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; this is where the magic happens in terms of heat!
- Honey: A drizzle of honey brings sweetness to counteract the spiciness, creating harmony in every bite.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing and slicing your cucumbers into thin rounds or sticks—whatever tickles your fancy! If you prefer less moisture, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing.
Step 2: Whip Up the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Use a whisk or fork to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Add water if you need to thin it out!
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Once your sauce is ready, toss those crunchy cucumber slices right into the bowl! Make sure each piece gets generously coated in that delightful spicy peanut sauce.
Step 4: Chill Out
For maximum flavor infusion, cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes—if you can resist diving in sooner!
Step 5: Serve It Up
When you’re ready to enjoy, grab some plates and serve up those cucumbers drizzled with any extra sauce from the bowl. Feel free to garnish with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for that extra flair.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Creation
Sit back and relish every single bite of these amazing cucumbers in spicy peanut sauce! They’re perfect as a snack or paired with grilled meats at dinner.
Now that you’ve unleashed this culinary masterpiece onto your table, get ready for compliments galore! Not only will you impress anyone lucky enough to try them but you’ll also have fun making them again and again!
You Must Know
- Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are not just a dish; they’re an experience.
- This crunchy, zesty delight is perfect for gatherings or a simple snack.
- The vibrant colors and flavors make it a showstopper on any table.
- Plus, it’s quick to whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce, start by slicing your cucumbers while preparing the spicy peanut sauce. This way, you’ll have everything ready to toss together in no time, ensuring maximum crunch and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce by adding shredded carrots for extra crunch or a splash of lime juice for zing. You can also swap regular peanuts for cashews to change things up!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The sauce tastes even better after sitting overnight, but avoid freezing as cucumbers lose their crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, let the cucumbers sit in the sauce for 10 minutes before serving.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning; a pinch more salt can elevate your dish!
- Use fresh ingredients for the best results—nothing beats that crispy texture.
Sometimes, when I make this dish, my friends can’t stop raving about how good it is! One friend even asked if I could cater his birthday party with these delightful cucumbers—it was hilarious!
FAQs :
What are Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a refreshing dish that combines crunchy cucumbers with a rich and flavorful peanut sauce. This dish is perfect for warm weather or as a side for various meals. The spicy sauce typically includes ingredients like peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and chili paste. Sweet Chili Shrimp for a Spicy Kick Cucumbers add a crisp texture, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer or a light snack, it’s a delightful way to enjoy cucumbers.
How do I make the peanut sauce for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce?
To create the peanut sauce for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce, mix together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and chili paste. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili paste. Stir the ingredients until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water. This rich and zesty sauce perfectly complements the fresh crunch of cucumbers. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies recipe.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! You can certainly add other vegetables to enhance your Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce. Bell peppers, carrots, or even thinly sliced radishes work beautifully alongside cucumbers. These additions not only boost the flavor but also increase the nutritional value of the dish. Spicy Chicken Salad for a Zesty Option Black Pepper Chicken for Bold Flavors Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies to create a colorful and vibrant salad.
Is Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is an excellent choice for meal prep. The essential components can be prepared in advance and stored separately until you’re ready to enjoy them. Keep the cucumbers fresh by storing them in an airtight container and mixing them with the peanut sauce just before serving. This ensures that you retain their crunchiness while enjoying a quick and easy meal throughout the week.
Conclusion for Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce :
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce offers a deliciously fresh way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With its creamy, spicy peanut sauce and crisp cucumbers, it’s an ideal dish for warm days or as part of any meal. One Pot Pasta for a Complete Meal Easy to customize with additional vegetables, this recipe allows for creativity while remaining healthy and satisfying. Perfect for meal prep, it can be enjoyed any day of the week!
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a vibrant and delicious dish that perfectly balances the cool crunch of fresh cucumbers with a rich, spicy peanut sauce. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a quick snack, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create an unforgettable flavor experience that will impress your guests. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha sauce (to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds or sticks. If desired, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes before rinsing to reduce moisture.
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, honey, and sesame oil until smooth; add water if needed for desired consistency.
- Toss cucumber slices in the sauce until well-coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Serve garnished with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition. For added zing, consider incorporating lime juice into the sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days; flavors improve overnight.
