Description
Spicy Cucumber Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the crispness of cucumbers and the bold flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and chili flakes. This quick recipe takes just five minutes to prepare, making it the perfect addition to busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The unique garlic-soy dressing elevates this salad, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering appetizer, side dish, or snack. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside grilled chicken or as a topping for rice bowls, this salad adds a delightful crunch and zesty flair to any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 mini or Persian cucumbers
- 1 green onion (ends trimmed and finely sliced)
- 1 ½ tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp crushed or full red chili flakes
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Wash and dry cucumbers. Cut ends off, then slice diagonally at a 45° angle without cutting all the way through.
- Flip cucumber and slice again at a 90° angle to create spiral cuts. Cut spirals in half.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and red chili flakes.
- Combine cucumbers with dressing in a mixing bowl and gently toss to coat. Garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Fresh cucumbers enhance texture; opt for firm ones. Adjust chili flakes based on your spice preference. Chill the salad for 30 minutes to meld flavors. Add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for color.