Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
A refreshing and zesty Spicy Cucumber Salad featuring crisp Persian cucumbers tossed in a savory and slightly sweet dressing with a hint of heat from red chili flakes. Perfect as a light side dish or appetizer, this salad combines the crunch of fresh cucumbers with the nutty flavor of sesame and the tanginess of vinegar, making it a vibrant addition to any meal.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Salad
- 8 mini or Persian cucumbers
- 1 green onion, ends trimmed and finely sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Dressing
- 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
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Rinse the mini or Persian cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons depending on your preference for bite size.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and red chili flakes until well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and finely sliced green onion. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
- Toss and Garnish: Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the cucumbers and onions are evenly coated with the dressing. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top as a garnish.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cucumbers absorb the spicy, tangy dressing. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this salad gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes depending on your desired spice level.
- Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Optional: add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and aroma.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keywords: Spicy Cucumber Salad, Asian Cucumber Salad, Gluten Free Salad, Quick Salad Recipe, Healthy Side Dish, No Cook Salad