Cucumber Salad With Spicy Dressing
A refreshing cucumber salad with a spicy, tangy dressing that offers a crisp texture and bold flavors, perfect for hot days or as a light side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients together in a medium salad bowl.
- Cover and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more refreshing twist, consider using Japanese cucumbers, which are less bitter. If you're looking for a milder dressing, reduce the hot pepper sauce or substitute it with a dash of chili flakes. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. For a vegan option, ensure the hot pepper sauce is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a perfect side for summer barbecues. Serve it alongside dishes like Kraut, Noodle And Mushroom Dish for a delightful contrast. For a light lunch, top it with shredded chicken or tofu for added protein and enjoy it with a refreshing Strawberry-Grapefruit Cooler.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will release water over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture of cucumbers does not hold up well when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Salad With Spicy Dressing contains roughly 83 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just combine the ingredients and let them chill in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to serve it within 24 hours, as the cucumbers may become too soft.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
If you don't have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or a light vegetable oil as a substitute. While it won't have the same nutty flavor, it will still provide a good base for the dressing. For an extra touch, you might add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this Cucumber Salad are vegan-friendly. Just make sure to check that the hot pepper sauce you choose does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, and you're good to go!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).