Print

15-Minute Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 111 reviews

A refreshing and quick 15-minute spicy cucumber salad featuring crisp Persian cucumbers tossed in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and chili crunch. Perfect as a light side dish or snack that combines crunch, spice, and tang in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cucumbers

  • 6 Persian cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon sugar

Spicy Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon chili crunch (or chili oil)

Garnish

  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prep the cucumbers: Slice the Persian cucumbers into thin rounds to ensure they absorb the flavors of the dressing evenly.
  2. Salt and drain: In a bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers with kosher salt and sugar. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes so they release excess water. Afterward, drain off any liquid to avoid a watery salad.
  3. Make the spicy sauce: Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated garlic, and chili crunch in a small bowl, stirring well to blend all the flavors.
  4. Combine and garnish: Add the drained cucumbers to the sauce and stir well to coat. Then mix in the finely chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds for a final touch of flavor and crunch.
  5. Serve or store: Enjoy the salad immediately for maximum crispness, or refrigerate it for up to 4 days to let the flavors meld and enjoy it chilled.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
  • Adjust the amount of chili crunch or chili oil according to your spice tolerance.
  • This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but cucumbers may soften over time.
  • You can add crushed peanuts or fresh herbs like cilantro for additional texture and flavor.

Keywords: spicy cucumber salad, quick cucumber salad, Asian cucumber salad, no-cook salad, Persian cucumbers, chili crunch salad, healthy side dish