This easy spicy cucumber salad is fresh and zesty! With crunchy cucumbers, a kick of chili, and a splash of vinegar, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just slice, mix, and let the flavors dance together. Plus, it’s a colorful treat that’ll make your plate pop! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are great for this salad because they are seedless and have a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, Kirby cucumbers work well, too, providing crispness. Just remember to adjust the amount based on size!
Rice Vinegar: This vinegar adds a mild sweetness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar can substitute. Just note that it may be a tad stronger, so use slightly less if you’re sensitive to tanginess.
Chili Flakes: Adjust these to control the heat level. If you want less spice, crushed red pepper or even black pepper will still add a nice kick. Alternatively, fresh chopped chili peppers are a great swap for a fresh flavor.
Sugar: The sugar helps to balance the flavors. If you want a healthier option, you can try honey or a sugar substitute like agave syrup. Just a bit is enough to enhance the taste!
How Do I Properly Salting Cucumbers?
Salting the cucumbers is a crucial step! It helps to draw out excess water, making the salad crispier and more flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the cucumbers and place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle salt over the slices and gently toss to coat.
- Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This will pull moisture from the cucumbers!
- Afterward, gently press them to squeeze out any remaining water.
Following this step ensures your salad won’t be watery, allowing the dressing to shine! Trust me, this makes a big difference.
Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers (preferably English or Kirby), thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes until you can enjoy this refreshing salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Begin by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers into a colander. Sprinkle the salt over them and toss to combine. Let the cucumbers sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps remove excess moisture, ensuring your salad won’t be watery. After 15 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers to get rid of any remaining water and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Keep whisking until the sugar is completely dissolved. This mixture will provide that delicious spicy-sour flavor to your salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together to ensure all the cucumber slices are well coated with the dressing. Then, add the sliced green onion and mix gently to combine.
4. Add Final Touches:
If you like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and crunch. It looks great too!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once ready, serve it cold as a refreshing and spicy side dish. Enjoy your delightful cucumber salad!
FAQ About Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can mix in other crunchy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or radishes for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly to match the cucumbers!
How Spicy Is This Salad?
The spice level comes from the chili flakes. For a milder salad, start with 1 teaspoon and adjust according to your taste. You can always add more if you like a good kick!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a bit, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a few hours in advance, but try to consume it within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If it starts to look watery, simply drain off excess liquid before serving again.
