Discover Spicy Peanut Cucumber Salad a crisp refreshing bowl thats quick to toss bold in flavor and perfect for summer meals you can share
Ingredients
Scale
2 large cucumbers, seedless English or Persian, thinly sliced
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/3 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons lime juice
1–2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced
1–2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
Water, as needed
Instructions
Prep the crunch components: Wash and dry all fresh produce. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moon shapes; julienne carrots and thinly slice bell pepper. If using red onion, soak briefly in cold water to mellow its bite, then drain.
Toast the peanuts: Roughly chop the roasted peanuts and set aside. Quick-toasted nuts can be toasted in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant; cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Whisk dressing: In a glass or bowl, whisk peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and chili sauce. Add water a teaspoon at a time to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
Toss salad base: In a large bowl, combine cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, red onion (if using), and cilantro. Toss to distribute colors evenly.
Dress and toss: Pour dressing over vegetables and toss until evenly coated. If needed, loosen with a teaspoon of water.
Add crunch and finish: Fold in toasted peanuts and, if desired, a light drizzle of sesame oil. Taste and adjust heat with extra chili sauce if desired.
Serve: Best served immediately or chill briefly (15–20 minutes). If meal prepping, store vegetables and dressing separately and combine just before serving.
Notes
Spicy Peanut Cucumber Salad is a bright, crunchy, quick-to-make salad featuring crisp cucumber, colorful vegetables, cilantro, roasted peanuts, and a velvety peanut dressing with a kick of heat.
