This Spicy Cucumber Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with a bold, umami-rich dressing. Inspired by Asian flavors, the salad features a spicy peanut sauce made with chili crisp, peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Topped with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts, it's a delightful balance of heat, saltiness, and creaminess. Perfect as a side dish or a light snack, this salad is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 pound (450 g) seedless cucumbers, sliced into ¼–½-inch thick rounds
2 tablespoons sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
1 tablespoon peanut butter (sweetened or unsweetened)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon chili crisp
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated fresh garlic
¼ teaspoon flaky salt (or kosher salt)
Directions:
Prepare the Cucumbers:
 Slice the cucumbers into ¼–½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
 In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, sesame oil, chili crisp, rice wine vinegar, tamari (or soy sauce), grated garlic, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
 Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Pour the spicy peanut sauce over the cucumbers. Toss gently to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.
Garnish and Serve:
 Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts for added crunch. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: Approximately 160 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 400 mg