This Spicy Cucumber Salad is one of my favorite salads. The texture, the spice, and how simple it is to make makes it so good. This recipe proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something that actually tastes amazing. It’s refreshing, has just the right amount of kick, and that crunch from the cucumbers paired with the chili crunch oil brings everything together. It tastes great on its own, but it also pairs really well with savory fish. If you need ideas, check out 5 Fish Recipes You Have To Try.
What Is Spicy Cucumber Salad?
Spicy cucumber salad is a simple dish made with fresh cucumbers tossed in a flavorful dressing, usually with garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil. It’s popular in many Asian-inspired recipes and is known for being refreshing, slightly tangy, and a little spicy. This version keeps things simple but still delivers on flavor with a balance of crunch, acidity, and heat.
Spicy Cucumber Salad Ingredients
- Mini Cucumbers: The base of the salad. They stay crisp and refreshing.
- Sweet Onion: Adds a mild sharpness that balances the dressing.
- Garlic: Brings bold flavor to the dish.
- Green Onion: Adds freshness and a light onion flavor.
- White Vinegar: Gives the salad that tangy bite.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
- Sesame Oil: Adds richness and depth.
- Sugar: Balances out the acidity and spice.
- Chili Crunch Oil: Adds heat and texture. I used chili crunch oil for that perfect kick.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Adds a light crunch and finishes the dish.
How to Make Spicy Cucumber Salad
Start by preparing your cucumbers. Place chopsticks on each side of the cucumber and carefully slice across without cutting all the way through. Then flip the cucumber and slice diagonally to create that spiral effect. This gives you those fun, springy cucumbers and helps the dressing soak in really well.
Add the cucumbers to a bowl along with the minced garlic, sliced sweet onion, and green onion. In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, white vinegar, and sugar until everything is well combined. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to combine. Next, add the chili crunch oil and toss everything again until evenly coated. Finish by topping with toasted sesame seeds.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cucumber Salad
This salad is super quick and easy to make and doesn’t require any cooking. It’s refreshing, crunchy, and full of flavor with just the right amount of heat. It also pairs really well with so many meals, making it a great go-to side dish. If you’re looking for something light but still flavorful, this is definitely one to add to your list.
More Salad Recipes You Have To Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my Summer Salad collection, where I share more light and refreshing recipes that are perfect for warm weather.
Spicy Cucumber Salad
Description
This Spicy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side made with crisp cucumbers, garlic, onion, and a tangy soy dressing with chili crunch oil. It’s simple, light, and has the perfect amount of heat.
Ingredients
Salad
Dressing
Toppings
Instructions
-
Place chopsticks on each side of the cucumber and slice across without cutting all the way through. Then flip the cucumber and slice diagonally to create a spiral effect. Repeat for all cucumbers.
-
Add the cucumbers to a bowl along with the minced garlic, sliced sweet onion, and green onion.
-
In a small bowl, mix together the white vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined.
-
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to combine.
-
Add the chili crunch oil and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
-
Finish by topping with toasted sesame seeds.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 3
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Sodium 520mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
