Spicy Cucumber Salad
Description
This Spicy Cucumber Salad is crisp, refreshing, and bursting with bold flavours. Juicy cucumber chunks are tossed in a tangy, garlicky, and slightly spicy dressing, finished with sesame seeds and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect quick side dish that balances heat, crunch, and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 3–4 cucumbers (cut into chunks or slices)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1–2 red chillies (sliced) (or chilli flakes)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
1. Prep Cucumbers
Wash and cut cucumbers into bite-sized chunks. Lightly salt and let sit for 10 minutes (optional for extra crunch), then drain excess water.
2. Make Dressing
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and chilli.
3. Combine
Add cucumbers to the bowl and toss well to coat.
4. Garnish
Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top.
5. Chill & Serve
Let sit for 10–15 minutes for best flavour, then serve.
Notes
- Salting cucumbers helps remove excess water
- Adjust spice level to your preference
- Best served fresh and chilled
Tips
- Add crushed peanuts for crunch
- Use chilli oil for deeper flavour
- Add sliced onions for extra bite
- Try with vinegar + lime combo for extra tang
Servings
- Serves: 3–4 people
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving approx.)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Health Benefits
- Hydrating: Cucumbers are mostly water
- Low Calorie: Great for weight management
- Digestive Support: Garlic & vinegar help digestion
- Anti-Inflammatory: Chilli and sesame add benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Supports overall health
Q&A
Q: Can I make it less spicy?
A: Yes, reduce or skip chillies.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Best eaten fresh, but can last 1–2 days refrigerated.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, just skip honey or use maple syrup.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Grilled meats, rice dishes, or noodles.
Q: Can I use English cucumbers?
A: Yes, they work great and are less watery.