Description
This Peanut Butter Cucumber Salad is crisp, creamy, and full of flavor—a bold twist on a simple classic. With crunchy cucumbers, a velvety peanut dressing, and a hint of spice, this no-cook dish is refreshing and ready in minutes. Perfect for warm days, meal prep, or when you want something healthy and exciting!
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 clove garlic, grated or finely minced
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons chopped peanuts or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro or scallions (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. If using large cucumbers, scoop out some of the seeds for less moisture.
Sprinkle a small pinch of salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 5–10 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess water.
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Add 1–2 teaspoons of water if needed to loosen the dressing.
Add the cucumbers to a large mixing bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the top and toss gently to coat every piece.
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Notes
For best texture, salt the cucumbers before tossing to remove excess moisture.
This salad is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by using maple syrup.
Use English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and better crunch.
Feel free to spice it up with chili oil or sriracha, or add protein like tofu or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Dressing may separate slightly—just stir and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Snack
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg