This Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing treat! It combines crunchy cucumbers with a zesty kick from chili and tangy lime juice. Perfect for a quick side dish!
I love to munch on this salad during hot days; it feels like a cool breeze! Just chop, mix, and enjoy—it’s that simple! Plus, who doesn’t love a little spice? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using large cucumbers for the best crunch. If you’re looking for alternatives, Persian cucumbers are smaller and sweeter, or you can use English cucumbers for a similar flavor.
Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a mild sweetness, but if you’re out, white vinegar works well, though it has a stronger flavor. Apple cider vinegar is another great option for a fruity twist.
Chili Flakes: I enjoy a good kick, but feel free to adjust the chili flakes to your taste. You can also substitute with fresh sliced chili peppers or sriracha for an extra spicy touch.
Sesame Oil: This ingredient gives the salad a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, olive oil can be used, although the taste will be different.
Cilantro: While cilantro adds freshness, it’s optional. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or simply leave it out!
How Do You Make Sure Your Cucumber Salad Stays Crisp?
The trick to keeping your cucumber salad crisp lies in the salting step. By salting the cucumbers first, you draw out excess water, which prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice your cucumbers and place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle salt over them and toss to combine. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
- After resting, gently squeeze them to get rid of additional moisture.
- This preparation will give you a refreshing crunch in every bite!
Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad with Zesty Kick
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious cucumber salad will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time. If you choose to chill it before serving, it can sit in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to let all the flavors combine, making it an even more refreshing option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. Place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. This step helps draw out excess water from the cucumbers, preventing the salad from becoming soggy. Toss them gently to combine, and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Make the Zesty Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together the rice vinegar, fresh lime juice, sugar, chili flakes, minced garlic, and sesame oil until the sugar is completely dissolved. This mixture is what adds that zesty kick to your salad!
3. Combine and Toss:
After the cucumbers have rested and you’ve squeezed out any extra liquid, transfer them to a serving bowl. Pour the zesty dressing over the cucumbers and toss them together gently, making sure every slice is well-coated.
4. Finishing Touches:
For a burst of flavor, garnish your salad with chopped cilantro and sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top. If you like, you can also add extra chili flakes for more heat!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
The salad can be served immediately for maximum crispness. Alternatively, for a more mellow flavor, chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving. This refreshing salad with a zesty kick is perfect for summer meals or as a side dish!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While large cucumbers work great, you can also use Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste or English cucumbers for a milder flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salting time based on the thickness of the slices!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re looking for a milder salad, reduce the chili flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or even omit them. For more heat, add extra chili flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers. Sriracha can also be a fantastic spicy dressing substitute.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the cucumbers stay crisp. Mix them together just before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will still taste great for a day or two. Just be aware that the cucumbers may soften over time!
