Spicy Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Reasons to Try It

spicy cucumber salad

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing *spicy cucumber salad* to brighten up those warm summer days! This salad is a fantastic combination of crunchy cucumbers and a kick of heat that just screams summer. The cool, crisp cucumbers paired with the zingy dressing create a perfect balance that I can’t get enough of. Personally, I whip this up whenever I’m hosting a barbecue or even just craving a light snack. It’s so easy to make, and the vibrant flavors always impress my friends and family. Plus, it’s vegan, which means everyone can enjoy it! Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll become a staple in your summer recipe lineup. So, let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 2 large cucumbers, washed and sliced thinly
  • 1 teaspoon salt, to draw out moisture and enhance flavor
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, for a tangy kick
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce, to add that savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil, for a nutty aroma
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to your heat preference
  • 1 tablespoon sugar, to balance the flavors
  • 2 green onions, chopped for freshness and crunch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for a delightful finish
Homvana Humidifiers for Bedroom Home

Homvana Humidifiers for Bedroom Home

NutriChef Automatic Vacuum Air

NutriChef Automatic Vacuum Air

Ninja | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry

Ninja | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry

CAROTE 25pcs Pots and Pans

CAROTE 25pcs Pots and Pans

How to Prepare *Spicy Cucumber Salad*

Making this *spicy cucumber salad* is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to enjoy in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First, wash those beautiful cucumbers under cool running water to remove any dirt. Then, slice them thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thickness for the best crunch!
  2. Once sliced, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers. This little step is magical as it draws out excess moisture and enhances the flavors. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the cucumbers will start to release some water.
  3. While the cucumbers are resting, grab a mixing bowl and combine 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Give it a good whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well blended!
  4. Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss them to coat every slice. I like to use my hands here because it feels more personal, but a spatula works just as well!
  5. Finally, stir in the chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds for that extra crunch and flavor. It’s looking gorgeous already!
  6. For the best taste, pop the salad in the fridge and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on the *spicy cucumber salad*! Each serving is packed with flavor while keeping things light and refreshing. Below are the estimated nutritional values per serving:

  • Calories: 80
  • Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 2g

These values make it a guilt-free option that you’ll feel good about enjoying! Plus, with all those fresh ingredients, you know you’re getting a nice boost of vitamins and minerals. So, go ahead and indulge in this delightful salad without a second thought!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy summer days.
  • Refreshing flavor: The crisp cucumbers paired with a zesty dressing create a light and invigorating dish that’s hard to resist.
  • Healthy ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, this salad is low in calories and rich in nutrients, making it a guilt-free delight.
  • Versatile: Whether you serve it as a side dish at a barbecue, a light lunch, or a snack, this salad fits perfectly into any meal.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toss in other veggies to make it your own, so you can enjoy it just the way you like!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your *spicy cucumber salad* turns out absolutely perfect every time!

  • Adjusting Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to add more chili flakes! I sometimes even toss in a splash of sriracha for an extra kick—it’s a game changer! On the flip side, if you prefer a milder flavor, just use less chili flakes or skip them altogether. You can always add more later if you want that spicy punch.
  • Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to really meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Plus, it’s super refreshing to serve cold on a hot day!
  • Serving Suggestions: This salad is wonderfully versatile! Serve it alongside grilled meats, as a topping for rice bowls, or even enjoy it with some crispy tofu for a delightful vegan meal. It’s also a fantastic snack on its own!
  • Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest cucumbers you can find! Look for firm ones with smooth skin for the best crunch. Organic cucumbers work great too if you can find them!
  • Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (good luck with that!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, but I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best texture and flavor.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a *spicy cucumber salad* that’ll knock everyone’s socks off! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your *spicy cucumber salad* is super easy, and I’ve got all the tips to keep it fresh! First off, make sure you transfer any leftover salad into an airtight container. This helps lock in the flavors and keeps those cucumbers crisp.

You’ll want to pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay good for up to 2 days. Just a quick note, though: the longer it sits, the more the cucumbers might soften, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

As for reheating, it’s actually best to enjoy this salad cold, so no need to heat it up! In fact, the refreshing taste is part of what makes it so delightful on a hot day. Just grab it from the fridge, toss it a bit, and you’re ready to savor that spicy goodness again!

FAQ Section

Can I make this spicy cucumber salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
No worries! If rice vinegar isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still keep that tangy goodness in the *spicy cucumber salad*.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! This salad is super versatile. You can toss in thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even radishes for extra crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the thickness similar for even flavor distribution!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The *spicy cucumber salad* is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers might get a little softer, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this salad gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. It’ll still pack all the same delicious flavor without the gluten!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear how your *spicy cucumber salad* turns out! Did you make any delicious tweaks or variations? Please leave a comment below and share your experience with me! Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself—share it on social media and tag your friends so they can join in on this refreshing goodness too! And if you’re feeling generous, give it a rating so others can discover this delightful dish. Let’s spread the love for this vibrant salad together!

spicy cucumber salad - detail 1

Z nadrukami
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
spicy cucumber salad

Spicy Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Reasons to Try It


  • Autor: Julia marin
  • Całkowity Czas: 45 minutes
  • Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
  • Dieta: Wegańskie

Opis

A refreshing and spicy cucumber salad perfect for summer.


Składniki

Skala
  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instrukcje

  1. Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly.
  2. Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes, and sugar.
  4. Add the cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat.
  5. Stir in chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Uwagi

  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.
  • Serve as a side dish or a light snack.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
  • Czas gotowania: 0 minutes
  • Kategoria: Salad
  • Sposób: Mixing
  • Kuchnia: Asian

Zasilanie

  • Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
  • Kalorie: 80
  • Cukier: 2g
  • Sód: 400mg
  • Kwasy: 4g
  • Nasycony tłuszcz: 0.5g
  • Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 3.5g
  • Tłuszcze trans: 0g
  • Węglowodany: 10g
  • Włókno: 2g
  • Białko: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Słowa kluczowe: spicy cucumber salad, cucumber salad recipe, Asian salad

O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.

Dodaj komentarz

Recipe rating