Name: Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber: 5 Bold Flavors for Summer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 9 mini cucumbers cut into wedges; 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 0.25 cup unsalted roasted peanuts, chopped; 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional); 3 Tbsp peanut butter; 1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce; 0.5 lime juice; 1 tsp agave syrup; 0.75 tsp garlic powder; 1 Tbsp water; 1 Tbsp chili crisp (plus more to taste)

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Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber is a refreshing and vibrant salad that will elevate your summer meals. This delightful dish combines crisp mini cucumbers with a creamy peanut dressing and a spicy kick from chili oil. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, it’s a perfect addition to any table. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber salad!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are several reasons to love it:

It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The combination of fresh cucumbers and spicy peanut oil creates a unique flavor profile.
It can be served as a side dish or an appetizer, making it quite versatile.
This salad is a great way to use up fresh summer cucumbers.
The recipe is vegan-friendly, catering to various dietary needs.
It’s packed with nutrients while being low in calories, perfect for a healthy diet.
Pair it with grilled dishes for a balanced meal.
It’s a great way to introduce peanuts into your diet if you love nutty flavors.

Ingredients for Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

Gather these items:

9 mini cucumbers cut into wedges
0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
0.25 cup unsalted roasted peanuts, chopped
1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
3 Tbsp peanut butter
1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
0.5 lime juice
1 tsp agave syrup
0.75 tsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp water
1 Tbsp chili crisp (plus more to taste)

How to Make Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start by cutting the mini cucumbers into wedges, then chop the fresh cilantro. Combine them in a mixing bowl with the chopped peanuts and optional sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, agave syrup, garlic powder, and water until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Pour the peanut dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: After resting, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Drizzle over chili oil for extra spice and garnish with more cilantro, peanuts, and sesame seeds.

Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to let the salad sit for a while before serving; it enhances the flavor.
If you want more heat, add extra chili oil according to your taste.
This recipe can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing right before serving for freshness.

Best Ways to Serve Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

This salad can be served in various ways:

As a refreshing side to grilled chicken or fish.
Pairing it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
It also works wonderfully as a light appetizer at gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

To store, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will intensify. Just remember to add fresh toppings like cilantro and peanuts before serving again. The quick preparation time of 25 minutes makes it an ideal meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber

What’s the secret to perfect Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber?

The secret lies in allowing the salad to sit after mixing. This resting time lets the flavors blend beautifully, creating a deliciously cohesive taste. The balance of the peanut dressing with the crisp cucumbers is key.

Can I make Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, ensuring the cucumbers stay crisp and the flavors fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber?

Avoid over-dressing the salad too early, as cucumbers can become watery. Also, adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your spice tolerance for the best experience.

Variations of Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add sliced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
Incorporate shredded carrots for a slightly sweet flavor.
Use almond butter in place of peanut butter for a different nutty taste.

Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber: 5 Bold Flavors for Summer - Peanut Chili Oil Cucumber - additional detail

For more delicious salad recipes, check out this link. If you’re interested in other vegan options, visit this page. You can also explore more summer recipes for fresh ideas!