Dessert

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

ByHarper Ellington November 19, 2025November 19, 2025

Introduction

Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce combine crisp cucumbers with a creamy, savory peanut dressing that has a delightful hint of heat. This refreshing dish balances crunchy textures and bold flavors, making it great as a summer side, snack, or appetizer. Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

A white bowl filled with two main layers: the bottom layer has thick, crisp green cucumber slices with ruffled edges, while the top layer is coated in a creamy, peanut-colored sauce sprinkled with small pieces of crushed peanuts, dark red chili flakes, and fresh green cilantro leaves, giving it a textured and colorful look; a silver spoon rests inside the bowl, and the bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a dark gray cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 (smooth or crunchy)
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss to coat. Transfer them to a colander and let them drain for one hour to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, minced garlic, dried chili flakes, and ground black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: After the cucumbers have drained, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the toasted peanuts, fresh parsley, and the prepared peanut sauce. Toss well to coat.
Step 4: Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor. If making ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Bring to room temperature and toss again before serving.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the heat by adding more or less dried red chili flakes, or add a dash of Sriracha for extra spice.
For a milder version, omit the chili flakes to make it kid-friendly.
Substitute peanuts with cashews or sunflower seeds if you have a peanut allergy.
Add sesame seeds or crushed almonds for extra crunch.
Enhance the umami flavor by adding a splash of fish sauce or miso paste.
Boost freshness by incorporating chopped cilantro, mint, or Thai basil.
Remember to salt and drain cucumbers first to keep the sauce thick and the cucumbers crisp.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. Before serving, bring it to room temperature and toss gently to redistribute the sauce. It’s best eaten fresh to maintain crispness; avoid storing for longer as cucumbers release moisture and soften. For longer freshness, keep cucumbers separate from the sauce and combine just before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with several layers of bright green cucumber slices that are evenly coated with a creamy light brown peanut sauce. The cucumbers have a fresh, juicy texture and are scattered with crushed peanuts, small red chili flakes, and bits of fresh green cilantro leaves. The sauce looks smooth and thick, clinging to the cucumber pieces. A silver spoon peeks out from the right side of the bowl, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Why do I need to salt and drain the cucumbers?

Salting and draining cucumbers remove excess moisture, preventing the peanut sauce from becoming watery. This helps maintain a firm cucumber texture and keeps the dressing thick and flavorful.