Fresh, spicy, and utterly addictive, this Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad is a vibrant twist on your classic cucumber side dish. Inspired by Asian flavor profiles, it pairs the cooling crunch of mini cucumbers with a spicy, nutty, umami-rich sauce made from chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and crushed roasted peanuts. Whether you’re craving something bold to serve alongside grilled meats, want a zesty snack, or need a refreshing dish to bring to a potluck, this Spicy Peanut Cucumber Salad delivers big flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad
- Simple ingredients, big flavor: You don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something unforgettable.
- Texture heaven: The crunchy cucumbers and crushed peanuts give every bite a satisfying snap.
- Perfect for summer: It’s cool, refreshing, and can be made ahead.
- Customizable heat: You control how spicy it gets by adjusting the chili oil and flakes.
- Healthy and vegan: A plant-based dish that’s also gluten-free with easy swaps.
Ingredients for Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad
To make this Peanut and Chili Oil Cucumber Salad, gather the following ingredients:
Main Salad Ingredients:
- Mini cucumbers – 6–8 mini cucumbers (or 2 large English cucumbers)
- Salt – ½ tsp, for draining excess moisture
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Roasted peanuts – ¼ cup, roughly crushed
- Scallions (green onions) – 2, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro – Optional, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- Chili oil – 2 tablespoons (with or without flakes depending on spice preference)
- Peanut butter – 1 tablespoon (smooth or chunky)
- Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar – 2 teaspoons
- Toasted sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
- Sugar or honey – 1 teaspoon (optional for balance)
- Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ tsp (optional for extra heat)
How to Make Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and dry the cucumbers.
- Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise. If they’re large, you can quarter them.
- Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes to release excess water. This keeps the salad from getting soggy.
- After resting, gently pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Chili Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar or honey (if using)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if you want more heat)
Whisk everything together until smooth. If the peanut butter is thick, you can microwave it for 10–15 seconds or add a splash of warm water to loosen the dressing.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
- Add the cucumbers to a clean bowl.
- Toss with minced garlic and green onions.
- Pour the dressing over and mix well so every piece is coated.
- Sprinkle the crushed peanuts on top and mix again lightly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips for the Best Spicy Peanut Cucumber Salad
- Smash the cucumbers for even more texture. Smashing releases more surface area to absorb the dressing.
- Let it chill: This salad gets better after 15–30 minutes in the fridge. The flavors meld and intensify.
- Use fresh garlic and toasted sesame oil: These small flavor punches make a big difference.
- Adjust the spice: Prefer milder heat? Use less chili oil or choose a mild chili crisp.
- Use natural peanut butter: Avoid overly sweetened varieties for a cleaner taste.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Nut-free? Use sunflower seed butter and toasted seeds instead of peanuts.
- Want crunchier texture? Add shredded carrots or thin-sliced radishes.
- Add protein: Top with grilled tofu, shrimp, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a full meal.
- Cucumber alternatives: Try this with spiralized zucchini, jicama, or even watermelon radish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce makes a wonderful addition to:
- Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken thighs, pork chops, or beef skewers.
- Asian-inspired meals: Complements dumplings, noodles, or fried rice.
- Picnic and potlucks: Easy to transport and crowd-pleasing.
- As a side to sandwiches or wraps: Especially ones with bold or spicy flavors.
How to Store It
This salad tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: Cucumbers don’t freeze well and will become mushy.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
This makes it an excellent light side for anyone eating low-carb, gluten-free, vegetarian, or plant-based diets.
The Flavor Breakdown
Cucumbers – Cool, crisp, and hydrating
Peanut Butter – Creamy, rich, and nutty
Chili Oil – Smoky, spicy, and fragrant
Garlic & Scallions – Sharp, savory backbone
Soy Sauce & Vinegar – Umami with tang
Peanuts – Crunchy and toasty
Each component plays a vital role in turning a humble cucumber into a flavor-packed, show-stealing salad.
Why This Salad Works
This Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad is all about balance:
- Temperature: Cool veggies with a warm, slightly spicy kick
- Texture: Crunch from cucumbers and peanuts
- Taste: Sweet, spicy, salty, and tangy all in one bite
It’s satisfying in a way that few side salads are, and it fits seamlessly into a variety of cuisines, from Chinese and Thai-inspired meals to modern fusion plates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of mini cucumbers?
Yes. Just peel them (if waxy), de-seed if needed, and cut into sticks or slices. English cucumbers are a great substitute.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! Make it up to a few hours ahead, but add the peanuts just before serving for the best crunch.
Is this salad spicy?
Mild to medium, depending on how much chili oil and flakes you use. If you’re unsure, start small and taste as you go.
What is the best chili oil to use?
Use a high-quality Chinese chili oil (like Lao Gan Ma) or homemade chili crisp for optimal flavor and texture.
Is it keto-friendly?
With minimal carbs, it can fit into a keto plan, especially if you skip the sugar or honey.
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Summer Salad
If you’re tired of the same old side salads and looking for something that will wow your palate and your guests, this Peanut and Chili Oil Cucumber Salad is your answer. It comes together in under 20 minutes and bursts with flavor, texture, and flair. It’s crunchy, spicy, tangy, savory—and just a little addictive.
Perfect for summer cookouts, lunch prep, or an easy dinner side, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Add it to your weekly menu and watch it disappear fast!
