This Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad is refreshing and has a kick! With crisp cucumbers and a zesty dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for those hot days.
I love how quick it is to whip up—just slice, toss, and enjoy! Plus, there’s nothing like cooling off with this salad after a long day. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large cucumbers for crunchy texture. If English cucumbers are available, they’re perfect too! They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. For a twist, try using pickling cucumbers for extra crunch.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives a mild sweetness, but white vinegar works just as well. If you want a fruitier flavor, apple cider vinegar is a nice option!
Chili Flakes: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer milder heat, use less or substitute with a pinch of paprika. For more kick, try fresh chopped chilis.
Cilantro or Green Onions: These add freshness; you can swap cilantro for parsley or omit it if you’re not a fan. Chopped mint can also give a refreshing twist!
How Do You Remove Excess Water from Cucumbers?
Removing water from cucumbers is key to keeping your salad crisp. Start by sprinkling the sliced cucumbers with salt, which draws moisture out. Let them rest in a colander for about 10-15 minutes.
- After resting, rinse cucumbers lightly to remove excess salt and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- This process prevents your salad from being soggy and keeps flavors balanced.
Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad takes about 10 minutes of preparation time. Plus, let it chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes for the best flavor. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly and slicing them thinly. If you like, you can peel them, but it’s not necessary as the skin adds a nice crunch.
2. Draw Out Excess Water:
Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Toss the slices gently to make sure they are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture and keeps the salad from getting watery.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, red chili flakes, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture well until the sugar dissolves fully. This will create your tasty dressing!
4. Dry the Cucumbers:
After the cucumbers have rested, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step ensures a crisp salad.
5. Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, toss the dried cucumber slices with the dressing until they are well coated. Make sure each slice gets a good amount of that zesty dressing!
6. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top. Add toasted sesame seeds for a little crunch and extra flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor experience, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Enjoy your spicy, refreshing cucumber salad! It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a light snack all on its own. 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While large cucumbers work well, English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers are excellent alternatives. They have less water and fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, start with just 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes. You can always add more later if you like extra heat. For a very mild option, consider using a pinch of paprika instead.
How Long Does This Salad Last?
For the best quality, enjoy the salad within 2-3 days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cucumbers may become a bit softer over time, but the flavors will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance. Just follow all the steps and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Chilling it enhances the flavors even more!
