If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed side dish, Spicy Cucumber Salad is your answer. With just a few ingredients and under 10 minutes of prep, this refreshing salad delivers bold heat, tangy zest, and an irresistible crunch.
Popular in Asian cuisines and increasingly loved worldwide, this salad combines sliced cucumbers with spicy chili oil, garlic, vinegar, and sesame—perfect as a snack, side dish, or light lunch.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian), thinly sliced
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust to heat level)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds, green onions, or red chili flakes
👨🍳 How to Make Spicy Cucumber Salad – Step-by-Step
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. You can use a mandoline or knife. If using larger cucumbers, deseed them for better texture.
📌 Pro tip: Lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess water to prevent sogginess.
✅ Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, mix:
- Chili oil
- Vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Sesame oil
- Sugar and a pinch of salt
Whisk until well combined.
✅ Step 3: Toss and Chill
Add cucumber slices to the dressing. Toss gently until each slice is well coated. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes for best flavor.
✅ Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or extra chili flakes. Serve cold and fresh!
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick, easy, and healthy
- Just 10 ingredients
- Perfect for summer or spicy cravings
- Vegan and low-calorie
- Great for meal prep or potlucks
Read also:-Vietnamese Chicken Pho – A Bowl Full of Comfort & Flavor
🧠 LSI Keywords Used Naturally
- Asian spicy cucumber salad,
- chili garlic cucumber,
- cucumber salad for summer,
- low-carb spicy salad,
- Korean cucumber side dish,
- pickled cucumber style recipe,
- sesame cucumber chili salad,
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just keep it chilled and consume within 24 hours.
Q2: Which cucumbers are best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal—they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
Q3: Is chili oil necessary?
It adds depth and spice, but you can substitute with red pepper flakes and a bit of olive oil.
Q4: Can I make this salad without garlic?
Yes, but garlic gives it that bold, punchy flavor. Try roasted garlic or garlic powder if fresh is too strong.
Q5: What can I serve it with?
It’s great with grilled chicken, rice bowls, noodles, or as a side to any Asian-style meal.
🎯 Final Thoughts
This Spicy Cucumber Salad isn’t just a quick fix for hunger—it’s a flavor bomb. With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, it adds a burst of freshness and heat to any meal. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, it’s a go-to recipe for spice lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.
