Name: Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 mini or Persian cucumbers; 1 green onion (ends trimmed and finely sliced); Sesame seeds, for garnish; 1 ½ tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free option); 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar or white wine vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 2 large garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp crushed or full red chili flakes

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Introduction

This Spicy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish with a delightful kick. The accordion-cut cucumbers soak up a flavorful, tangy dressing that combines soy, vinegar, and chili for an easy-to-make salad perfect for warm days or as a vibrant addition to any meal.

The dish shows a white bowl on a white marbled surface filled with bright green cucumber slices cut into thick rounds. The cucumber has a slightly ridged texture on the outer skin. The cucumber pieces are tossed in a dark soy-based sauce pooling at the bottom. Scattered across the cucumber are light tan sesame seeds and thinly sliced light green scallions. A pair of wooden chopsticks is holding one cucumber slice on the right side of the bowl, with a woman's hand visible just at the edge. The overall look is fresh, with vibrant green colors and a mix of smooth and crunchy textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 mini or Persian cucumbers
1 green onion (ends trimmed and finely sliced)
Sesame seeds
1 ½ tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten free)
1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
2 large garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp crushed or whole red chili flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the accordion cucumbers. Wash and dry the cucumbers, then cut off the ends. Place one cucumber at a time between two chopsticks and, using a sharp knife, make thin diagonal cuts at a 45° angle along the cucumber without cutting all the way through. Flip the cucumber and make cuts at a 90° angle. Avoid cutting straight across or at 45° again to maintain the spiral effect. Cut the spiral cucumbers in half and place them in a large mixing bowl. Alternatively, you can thinly slice the cucumbers using a mandolin.
Step 2: Make the dressing by whisking together soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and red chili flakes in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to combine without breaking the pieces. Garnish with sliced green onion and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, spicy flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
For extra crunch, refrigerate the cucumbers for 10 minutes before adding the dressing.
Add chopped fresh cilantro or mint for a fresh herbal twist.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, gently toss the salad again before serving. Avoid reheating this salad as it is best served chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

This close-up image shows a bowl filled with sliced cucumber rounds and diagonally cut green onion pieces mixed together. The cucumber slices are bright green with a shiny, wet look, layered thick and stacked in a slightly messy way. The green onions are scattered evenly throughout, adding a different texture with their light and dark green shades. The salad is sprinkled with small pale sesame seeds and tiny red chili flakes, resting in a thin, dark soy-based sauce that pools lightly at the bottom. The bowl itself is white, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of mini or Persian cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but peel them if the skin is thick or waxy. Mini or Persian cucumbers are preferred because they are more tender and less watery.

What can I substitute for honey if I want a vegan salad?

Maple syrup is a great vegan substitute for honey and adds a similar natural sweetness to the dressing.