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Cool and Spicy Cucumber Salad

A Refreshing Summer Delight with a Kick

4servings
20 min
Easy
Weeknight-friendly timingMacros ready to logFeeds a hungry crew
Cool and Spicy Cucumber Salad

About this recipe

This revamped Cool and Spicy Cucumber Salad combines the crisp freshness of cucumbers with a spicy, tangy dressing. Perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch, it balances cooling vegetables with a zesty punch, appealing to those who love a bit of spice in their meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. 1

    Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with salt and toss to combine. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then drain any excess water.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine the prepared cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro.

  3. 3

    In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

  4. 4

    Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss to coat.

  5. 5

    Cover and refrigerate the salad for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

  6. 6

    Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Chef's tip

For an extra crunch, try adding a handful of roasted peanuts just before serving. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

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