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Asian Cucumber Salad with Peanut Butter Dressing

Thickly sliced cucumbers coated in a creamy peanut butter dressing, topped with black sesame seeds and scallions for an asian cucumber salad with peanut butter.
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Make this refreshing and crunchy Asian cucumber salad featuring a savory, creamy peanut butter dressing. It is a quick, easy side dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large English cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for draining)
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons water (or more, to thin)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for 20 to 30 minutes. This draws out excess water.
  2. Rinse and dry the cucumbers: Gently rinse the salted cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them completely dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This step is key for a crunchy salad.
  3. Make the peanut dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce (if using).
  4. Thin the dressing: Add water one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more vinegar for tang or soy sauce for saltiness.
  5. Combine: Place the dried cucumber slices in a medium bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the cucumbers. Toss gently until all the slices are evenly coated.
  6. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it an excellent make ahead cucumber salad.
  7. Serve: Before serving this crunchy asian vegetable salad, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add more chili garlic sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
  • If you want to add protein, this peanut dressing for cucumbers pairs well with grilled chicken or cubed baked tofu.
  • To ensure the best texture for this refreshing summer cucumber side, do not skip the salting and drying step.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/asian-cucumber-salad-with-peanut-butter/