This Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad is fresh and zesty! With crisp cucumbers, a little chili, and a splash of vinegar, it’s a perfect side dish for sunny days.
Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up! I like to make extra and enjoy it all week. Trust me, it’s the crunchy treat your meals need! 🥒🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers are a great alternative! They’ll both give that nice crunch.
Rice Vinegar: This is my favorite for a gentle taste. You can swap it for white vinegar or apple cider vinegar if that’s what you have, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Chili Flakes: Adjust the heat to your liking! If you’re not a fan of spice, try paprika or omit it. For a fresher kick, sliced fresh chili works too.
Sugar: The sugar helps balance the heat and tanginess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try honey or a sugar substitute like stevia.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crisp Cucumbers?
The secret to crunchy cucumbers is all in the salting technique! Salt helps draw out moisture, preventing your salad from getting soggy. Follow these steps:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly, around 1/8 inch.
- In a colander, sprinkle the slices with salt and toss them well.
- Let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This helps them release water effectively.
- After waiting, give them a gentle squeeze to remove any excess liquid before adding the dressing.
This way, you’ll have that satisfying crunch in every bite!
Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: fresh cilantro or mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for the cucumbers to sit and release their moisture. So, in total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to have this tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them thinly to about 1/8 inch thick. If you have a mandoline slicer, it can help make even slices!
2. Salt the Slices:
Place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Toss the slices so they’re well coated. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water, which keeps the salad crisp.
3. Make the Dressing:
While waiting for the cucumbers, prepare the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, chili flakes, and minced garlic until the sugar is dissolved. This will add a tangy and spicy kick to the salad!
4. Remove Excess Liquid:
Once the cucumbers have released some water, gently squeeze them to remove any remaining liquid. This ensures your salad stays crunchy and doesn’t get soggy.
5. Mix It All Together:
Transfer the cucumbers to a mixing bowl and pour the prepared dressing over them. Toss everything gently to coat the cucumber slices evenly with the dressing.
6. Add Final Touches:
Garnish the salad with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or mint leaves on top for extra flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the flavors to meld beautifully, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This adds a refreshing element to your dish!
Enjoy your delicious and zesty Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish with any meal. 🥒🌶️
FAQ for Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are perfect due to their thin skin and minimal seeds, but you can also use Persian cucumbers or regular cucumber varieties. Just make sure to slice them thinly for the best texture!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the chili flakes or omit them entirely. You can replace them with paprika for color without the heat. Conversely, for more spice, add fresh sliced chili or increase the chili flakes to your liking!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just prepare everything up to Step 6, and store it in the refrigerator. Add the sesame seeds and any fresh herbs right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften a bit as they sit in the dressing, but the flavors will still be delicious!
