Imagine: crisp, juicy cucumbers meat a creamy peanutbutter dressing that has been exquisitely refined with peanuts, chili, and a hint of lime. As you chew, you’re delight by the subtle crunch and aroma of sesame seeds. No need to leave it in fantasty, because that’s the reality that awaits you with our cucumber salad with peanut dressing recipe! We all know cucumber salad, but this version adds a little something special. Berfect for warm days or simply as a fresh alternative to your standard cucumber salad recipe, read below to find more about this delicious dish.
Our Recipe for Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing
I’ve rarely given much thought to cucumbers. But while writing this recipe, the vegetable got me thinking. Disdained by many for its wateriness, others love it precisely for its hydrating effect. But where did the cucumber actually originate? What’s in it? Let’s take a closer look at this vegetable before we dive into the recipe.
The cucumber originally comes from South Asia, specifically present-day India. The notorious and illustrious cuke seems to have long been loved, as earliest cultivation of it dates back to over 3000 years ago! Through trade routes and voyages of discovery, the crunchy fruit (yes, botanically speaking, the cucumber is actually a fruit) travelled with and gained devotion worldwide. It appeared in Europe as early as the Middle Ages and as they colonized the Americas, so too came the cucumber with them.
The cucumber may seem inconspicuous, but don’t underestimate it! As already teased above, it consists of about 96 percent water, which makes it a real hydration sensation. On hot days or after exercising, it can give your body a refreshing boost. It is, so to say, the vegetable equivalent of drinking water. And the best part? It’s super low in calories: 100 grams contain just 12 calories. Perfect if you want to eat light and healthy.
But that’s not all. Besides water, the cucumber also contains other important nutrients. It provides you with vitamins K and C, as well as potassium and some antioxidants. Thanks to its ingredients, it has an anti-inflammatory effect, can support digestion, and even ensures radiant skin when used as a face mask. But today, let’s keep it to the kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cracking with those cucumbers!
Also try our Creamy Cucumber Salad. This Cucumber and Apple Salad is also a crisp and fresh treat. Or next, prepare a Potato and Cucumber Salad. Our recipe bot can also suggest more salad recipes at any time, no matter what you’re looking for.
Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing
Ingredients
For the cucumber salad:
- 2 cucumbers
- 4 scallions
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
- ½ cup salted peanuts to garnish
For the peanut dressing:
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp chili flakes or to taste
- 3-4 tbsp water to adjust consistency
Instructions
- Wash the cucumbers, scallions, and cilantro.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly or halve them lengthwise and slice into half-moons. Place them in a large bowl.
- Thinly slice the scallions and roughly chop the cilantro. Add both to the cucumbers.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic. Alternatively, press it through a garlic press. Peel and finely grate the ginger.
- In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, chili flakes, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Stir everything well until a smooth dressing forms. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy but not too thick.
- Pour the peanut dressing over the cucumber salad and mix well until the vegetables are evenly coated. If needed, season the salad with a little more lime juice or soy sauce to taste.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds and salted peanuts over the salad. Serve immediately, or let it sit briefly before serving.