Peanut And Chili Oil Cucumber Salad

Peanut And Chili Oil Cucumber Salad

This refreshing Peanut and Chili Oil Cucumber Salad is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, fresh cilantro, and a creamy peanut dressing. The salad is topped with roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of homemade chili crisp, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

Table of Contents

Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad vertical picture

About Peanut And Chili Oil Cucumber Salads

Cucumber salads are a staple in various Asian cuisines, celebrated for their cooling properties and simple preparation. The combination of cucumbers and peanuts is particularly popular in Southeast Asia, where peanuts are a common ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. This salad takes inspiration from Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, blending the freshness of cucumbers with the rich flavors of a peanut butter-based dressing.

The use of peanut butter in the dressing adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor, while the addition of soy sauce, lime juice, and agave nectar balances sweetness, saltiness, and tanginess. Fresh cilantro enhances the salad’s vibrant taste, making it a refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salad

  • Crunchy and Creamy: The combination of crisp cucumbers, roasted peanuts, and a creamy peanut dressing creates a delightful texture contrast.
  • Fresh and Flavorful: The use of fresh cilantro and lime juice makes this salad both refreshing and flavorful.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this salad is perfect for busy days.
  • Versatile: This salad can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a topping for grilled meats or tofu.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious elements like cucumbers, peanuts, and sesame seeds, this salad is both tasty and good for you.

What Is in This Cucumber Salad

  • Cucumbers: The base of the salad, providing a crisp and refreshing texture.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh flavor and color.
  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.
  • Roasted Peanuts: Provide a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
  • Peanut Butter: Forms the base of the creamy dressing.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the dressing.
  • Agave Nectar: Sweetens the dressing naturally.
  • Lime Juice: Brings a tangy brightness to the salad.
  • Water: Thins the dressing to the desired consistency.
  • Homemade Chili Crisp: Adds a spicy kick and extra texture.

Key Ingredients

  • Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
  • Peanut Butter: Choose a smooth, natural peanut butter for a creamy dressing.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the dressing.
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for a bright, tangy flavor.
  • Homemade Chili Crisp: Optional, but adds a delicious spicy element.

How to Make Cucumber Salad

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, agave nectar, lime juice, and water until smooth.
Ingredients in a jar or Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad
  1. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, fresh cilantro, roasted peanuts, and toasted sesame seeds.
Adding Ingredients in a White Bowl to make Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad
  1. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Adding dressing on Cucumber salad
  1. Drizzle: Add on a few tablespoons of our homemade Chili Crisp or Chili Oil
  1. Serve: Garnish with additional roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, Serve immediately.
Peanut & Chili Oil Cucumber Salad served in a white bowl

Have It Your Way!

  • Make It Spicier: Add more chili crisp or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for extra heat.
  • Swap the Peanuts: Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts for a different nutty flavor.
  • Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, tofu, or tempeh to make it a complete meal.
  • Use Different Greens: Mix in baby spinach or arugula for added greens and texture.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: Use honey or maple syrup instead of agave nectar if preferred.

Nutritional Facts and Health Benefits

  • Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving.
  • Protein: 6 grams.
  • Fat: 14 grams.
  • Carbohydrates: 10 grams.
  • Fiber: 3 grams.
  • Sugar: 4 grams.
  • Sodium: 250 milligrams.

Health Benefits:

  • Rich in Healthy Fats: The peanuts and sesame seeds provide heart-healthy fats.
  • High in Fiber: The cucumbers and cilantro contribute to a fiber-rich dish.
  • Packed with Vitamins: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K and antioxidants.
  • Boosts Digestion: The fiber content aids in healthy digestion.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

  1. Asian Coleslaw
  2. Southwest Taco Salad
  3. Sichuan Chili Crisp
  4. Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad
  5. Broccoli Caesar Salad
Peanut and Chili Oil Cucumber Salad served in a white bowl

Peanut And Chili Oil Cucumber Salad

Berry Berry Life
This refreshing Cucumber Salad is a delightful mix of crisp cucumbers, fresh cilantro, and a creamy peanut dressing. The salad is topped with roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of homemade chili crisp, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. It's a perfect side dish or light meal that's both flavorful and nutritious.
5 from 3 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

Salad Dressing:

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, agave nectar, lime juice, and water until smooth.
  • Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, fresh cilantro, roasted peanuts, and toasted sesame seeds.
  • Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  • Serve: Garnish with additional roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of homemade chili crisp. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately; combine with the salad just before serving.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled tofu or chicken for a complete meal. Serve as a side dish with Asian-inspired mains.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 150kcal
Keyword 15 minutes, Salad
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