Cucumber Salad with Peanuts: A Refreshing and Crunchy Delight

Cucumber salad with peanuts is a delightful, refreshing dish that combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers with the nutty crunch of roasted peanuts. This salad is an excellent choice for a light side dish, a quick lunch, or a refreshing addition to any meal. With a simple yet flavorful dressing, it showcases how minimal ingredients can come together to create a dish full of texture and contrast.

Ingredients

For this cucumber salad, you will need the following ingredients:

Salad:

• 3 medium-sized cucumbers (preferably English cucumbers for their mild flavor and fewer seeds)
• 1/2 cup of roasted peanuts (unsalted, whole or lightly crushed)
• 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro leaves (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley (roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons of lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (adds a rich, nutty aroma)
• 1/2 teaspoon of sugar (adjust to taste)
• A pinch of salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of the soy sauce)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Since we’re keeping the skin on for added texture, ensure they are clean. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can lightly peel them, leaving thin strips of skin for visual appeal.

Using a sharp vegetable slicer or a mandoline, cut the cucumbers into thin slices. Alternatively, you can slice them by hand into thin rounds or even julienne them into thin sticks for a more creative presentation. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl.

Step 2: Toast the Peanuts (Optional)

If your peanuts are not already roasted, you can quickly toast them in a pan over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure they don’t burn. This step brings out the nutty flavor of the peanuts and enhances their crunchy texture. Once they are golden brown, set them aside to cool.

If you prefer whole peanuts for more crunch, leave them as is. Alternatively, you can lightly crush them using a rolling pin for smaller, bite-sized pieces. Both ways add a delightful texture to the salad.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. Add a pinch of salt if needed, but keep in mind that soy sauce already provides saltiness. Adjust the flavor to your liking by tasting the dressing and adding more lime juice or sugar as needed. Finally, season the dressing with freshly ground black pepper for a slight kick.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Now it’s time to bring all the components together. Add the roasted peanuts to the cucumber slices, followed by the chopped cilantro and parsley. These fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic flavor to the salad, making it more vibrant and refreshing.

Pour the dressing over the salad, making sure to coat the cucumber slices evenly. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure every piece is covered with the tangy, savory dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad. This optional garnish adds another level of crunch and a subtle nutty taste, complementing the peanuts.

Once garnished, transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy it immediately for the freshest flavor and texture. Cucumber salad with peanuts can be served on its own as a light snack or side dish or paired with grilled vegetables or main dishes for a complete meal.

Customization and Variations

One of the best things about this cucumber salad recipe is its versatility. You can customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand in your kitchen.

• Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a finely chopped chili pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the dressing. The heat will contrast beautifully with the cool cucumbers.
• Herb Swap: Don’t have cilantro or parsley on hand? You can easily substitute them with fresh mint or basil for a different herbaceous twist.
• Sweet and Tangy: For a hint of sweetness, try adding a small amount of honey or maple syrup to the dressing. This works well to balance the acidity of the lime juice and vinegar.
• Texture Boost: If you’re looking for even more texture, consider adding sliced radishes, carrots, or bell peppers to the salad. These vegetables will add a satisfying crunch along with the cucumbers and peanuts.

Storage Tips

Cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers tend to release water over time, which can make the salad soggy. However, if you have leftovers or want to prepare it in advance, here are a few tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day. The cucumbers will soften slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. You can always add more fresh peanuts for extra crunch just before serving.
• Dressing: To keep the cucumbers crisp, you can prepare the dressing and salad components separately. Mix the cucumbers, herbs, and peanuts without the dressing and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together with the dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Cucumber salad with peanuts is more than just a simple dish—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispness of cucumbers, the earthy nuttiness of roasted peanuts, and the tangy, umami-rich dressing come together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that appeals to both the eyes and the palate, offering something light yet satisfying.

This recipe is ideal for any time of the year, but it especially shines during warm weather when you crave something cool and refreshing. With minimal preparation and no cooking involved, it’s a go-to dish for busy days, gatherings, or when you simply want to enjoy a burst of fresh flavors.

Cucumber salad with peanuts is a must-try recipe that will surely become a favorite in your salad repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick, easy side dish or a light main course, this salad delivers both flavor and texture in every bite. The combination of cucumbers, peanuts, and a simple tangy dressing proves that a few ingredients can go a long way in creating a delicious meal.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. They’ll appreciate the unique blend of flavors and the satisfying crunch of the peanuts, making it a memorable addition to any meal!