Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce – Refreshing with a Kick

When the summer heat calls for something cool, crisp, and packed with flavor, this Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is your answer.

Thin slices of cucumber are tossed in a creamy, spicy, umami-rich peanut dressing with toasted peanuts and fresh parsley.

It’s a vibrant, no-cook dish that’s perfect as a snack, side, or even a light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and bold – Cool cucumber meets spicy-sweet peanut sauce.

Fast and fuss-free – Just slice, whisk, and toss.

Great for meal prep – Can be made a few hours in advance.

Naturally vegan – Plant-based ingredients with plenty of flavor.

Perfect for warm weather – Light, hydrating, and energizing.

Gluten-free option – Just sub tamari for soy sauce.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

English Cucumbers – Thin-skinned and nearly seedless, ideal for crisp texture without peeling.

Peanut Butter – Smooth or chunky adds creamy body and rich flavor.

Rice Vinegar & Soy Sauce – These balance acidity and umami in the dressing.

Toasted Peanuts – Bring crunch and a nutty finish.

Garlic & Chili Flakes – Add heat and depth.

Honey – Just a hint of sweetness to round everything out.

Fresh Parsley – Adds color and brightness at the end.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Salt the cucumbers first – This draws out moisture so your salad won’t get watery.

Use toasted peanuts – Toasted nuts bring better flavor and extra crunch.

Whisk sauce until smooth – Especially important when combining peanut butter.

Let it sit briefly – The cucumbers absorb the flavors better after 10–15 minutes.

Don’t store too long – It’s best within 8 hours for peak texture and taste.

How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Drain the Cucumbers

Slice 2 large English cucumbers into ⅓-inch thick rounds.

Add to a mixing bowl and toss with ½ teaspoon salt.

Transfer to a colander and let sit for 1 hour to release excess water.

This keeps your salad crunchy, not soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons peanut butter

1 tablespoon honey

2 cloves minced garlic

1 teaspoon red chili flakes

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Whisk until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

After draining, place the cucumbers in a clean bowl. Add:

½ cup toasted, chopped peanuts

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

The prepared peanut sauce

Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the cucumbers are evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Serve immediately for best texture. If making ahead, refrigerate up to 8 hours.

Bring to room temperature and toss again before serving to re-incorporate the sauce.

What to Serve It With

Grilled chicken or tofu – A cooling, spicy contrast.

Sticky jasmine or brown rice – A grounding base for the punchy flavors.

Asian-inspired noodles – Add this as a topping or side.

Lettuce wraps – Spoon into romaine leaves for a crunchy, hand-held bite.

On its own – Makes a perfect refreshing snack or appetizer.

Variations / Substitutions

Make it nut-free – Sub tahini or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.

Lower the heat – Reduce or omit the red chili flakes.

Add veggies – Try shredded carrots or thinly sliced radishes.

Use tamari or coconut aminos – For a gluten-free or soy-free version.

Add protein – Toss in shredded chicken or edamame for a fuller meal.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerator – Store in a sealed container up to 8 hours.

Before serving – Always bring to room temp and stir again, as the sauce may settle.

Not freezer-friendly – The cucumber texture will not hold up after thawing.

Prep tip – Keep cucumbers and sauce separate until just before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English?
Yes, but you may want to peel and seed them first to avoid bitterness and excess moisture.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a noticeable kick from the chili flakes. Reduce or omit them if you’re heat-sensitive.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just whisk again before using.

Is this vegan?
Yes, as written. For strict vegan diets, swap honey for maple syrup or agave.

Can I serve it warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, but the sauce is flexible and reheats well for other dishes.

Can I double this for a party?
Definitely! Just adjust salt and spice to taste when scaling up.

Final Thoughts

These Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce are everything I love in a salad—crunchy, creamy, tangy, and full of personality.

It’s the kind of dish you can whip up fast but still impress guests with bold flavors and refreshing balance.

Whether you serve it as a side, a starter, or a midday pick-me-up, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your warm-weather rotation.