This Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad is perfect for summer! Crisp cucumbers, zesty lime juice, and a kick from chili flakes make it a refreshing side dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch! If you don’t have regular cucumbers, English cucumbers are a great swap since they’re often less bitter.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a mild sweetness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works well—just adjust the quantity to taste.
Chili Flakes: Adjust the level of spice according to your preference. You can also use fresh chopped chili for more flavor and heat!
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro gives a nice touch, but if you’re not a fan, fresh mint is a wonderful alternative. It adds a refreshing note.
How Do I Properly Prepare the Cucumbers?
Preparing cucumbers correctly is key to a great salad. Make sure to slice them thinly for maximum flavor absorption. Salting them first removes excess water, making your salad less soggy.
- Start by washing and slicing your cucumbers as evenly as possible.
- Sprinkle with salt and let them sit. This step is crucial for drawing out moisture.
- After resting, give them a gentle squeeze to remove any liquid—it keeps your salad crisp!
Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or mint
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a little extra time (about 20 minutes) for it to chill in the fridge and enhance the flavors, making it perfect for a hot summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. You can peel them if you’d like, but leaving the skin on adds a nice crunch and vibrant color. Slice them thinly for the best texture.
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Place the cucumber slices into a bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Toss everything together so the cucumbers are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture and keep your salad crisp.
3. Make the Dressing:
While the cucumbers are resting, take a small bowl and whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. If you enjoy a bit of savoriness, add a tablespoon of soy sauce. This dressing is what gives the salad its kick!
4. Drain the Cucumbers:
After the cucumbers have soaked, gently squeeze them to remove any excess liquid. This step is important to prevent your salad from becoming soggy.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the drained cucumbers and toss lightly until they are well coated. Make sure every slice is covered with that zesty dressing.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add in the chopped fresh cilantro or mint. Toss again gently to combine everything. This will give your salad a wonderful fresh flavor.
7. Garnish and Chill:
If you like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve it cold as a tasty, refreshing side dish. Enjoy your Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad on a hot summer day!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Yes! While regular cucumbers work well, English cucumbers are an excellent alternative since they are usually less bitter and have fewer seeds. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
How Spicy Is This Salad?
The spice level can be easily adjusted! Start with 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes for a mild kick and add more to taste if you enjoy it spicier. You can also use fresh chilies for a different flavor profile.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed and store it in the refrigerator. Allowing it to sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It may lose some crunch over time, but the flavors will still be delightful. Give it a quick stir before serving again!
