Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this spicy cucumber salad! It’s the ultimate refreshing dish, especially on those sweltering hot days when you just can’t bear to turn on the stove. This salad is like a cool breeze on a summer afternoon—crisp, vibrant, and packed with a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds! The combination of fresh cucumbers with a zesty dressing made from rice vinegar and chili flakes is just divine. Trust me, once you’ve tried this salad, you’ll want to make it your go-to side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even just a light lunch. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up and bursting with flavor. So, are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s not only vibrant but also incredibly refreshing. Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch! I love how simple and straightforward this list is—just grab everything, and you’re on your way to a delicious salad that’ll impress anyone who gets a taste!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. I like to use a sharp knife to get those perfect, crisp rounds that will soak up all the flavors. The thinner, the better, for that refreshing crunch!
- Next, sprinkle the salt over the sliced cucumbers and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial because salting draws out excess water from the cucumbers, making them crunchier and intensifying their flavor. You’ll notice the cucumbers start to sweat a bit—don’t worry, this is just what we want!
- While those cucumbers are chilling out, grab a bowl and mix together the sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili flakes. This dressing is where all the magic happens! Make sure to taste it—if you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili flakes!
- After the cucumbers have sat, rinse them under cold water to wash away the salt and then drain them well. This will keep your salad from being too salty. Pat them dry with a paper towel if you want to be extra thorough.
- Now, toss the cucumbers in the bowl with your lovely dressing. Mix it all together so every slice is coated in that tangy goodness. Then stir in the chopped green onions and sesame oil for that extra flavor boost.
- Finally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
And there you have it! A simple yet delicious spicy cucumber salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfying crunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy days!
- Refreshing taste that’s ideal for hot weather.
- Low in calories but high in flavor, making it a guilt-free side.
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats, rice dishes, or enjoyed on its own.
- Customizable spice levels, so you can make it just how you like it!
- Vegan-friendly and packed with nutrients from fresh cucumbers and green onions.
This spicy cucumber salad is a delightful addition to any meal, and I promise it’ll become a favorite for its vibrant taste and easy prep!
Tips for Success
To really nail this spicy cucumber salad, here are my top tips! First, always use the freshest cucumbers you can find—organic ones are fantastic if you can swing it. Their crunchiness makes all the difference! If you like heat, don’t be shy with the chili flakes; you can even add a dash of Sriracha for extra kick. For a lovely presentation, serve the salad in a chilled bowl and garnish with sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions. And remember, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste. Enjoy creating your perfect dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this spicy cucumber salad. Each serving contains about 80 calories, with 5 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein. You’ll also get around 10 grams of carbohydrates, including 2 grams of fiber and 4 grams of sugar. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a light, refreshing option that’s perfect for your healthy eating goals!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this spicy cucumber salad? I’ve got answers! One common question is, “Can I substitute the cucumbers?” Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, try using zucchini or even jicama for a different crunch. Another frequent query is about storage—store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the cucumbers will continue to release water, so it might get a bit watery as it sits. As for spice levels, feel free to adjust the chili flakes to your taste! You can even add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. Enjoy experimenting until you find your perfect balance!
Serving Suggestions
This spicy cucumber salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork—those smoky flavors complement the fresh crunch of the salad perfectly. It also makes a fantastic side for Asian-inspired meals, like teriyaki salmon or stir-fried tofu. You could even toss it onto a rice bowl for a delightful crunch that balances out the warm, savory elements. Trust me, this salad adds that refreshing zing that elevates any meal! Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite pairings!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Chicken.
Print
Spicy Cucumber Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Fresh Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and spicy cucumber salad that is perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers thinly.
- Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
- Rinse the cucumbers and drain the excess water.
- Add the cucumbers to the bowl and mix well.
- Stir in green onions and sesame oil.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.
- Serve with grilled meats for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: spicy cucumber salad, cucumber salad, vegan salad
