What are the ingredients in spicy cucumber salad?

A classic spicy cucumber salad includes thinly sliced cucumbers, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, garlic, and sesame oil. Top it off with chopped herbs—think cilantro or mint—and a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for that perfect mix of freshness and crunch. The bold, spicy dressing brings it all together.

What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?

Avoid creamy dressings or ingredients with a high water content that may make the cucumbers soggy. Also, skip overly sweet or oily toppings that compete with the salad’s light, spicy profile. Mixing too much salt or acidic ingredients without draining the cucumbers first can cause texture issues.

What is a Korean spicy cucumber side dish?

The Korean version is called "Oi Muchim." It’s a spicy cucumber salad made with gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, and sometimes fish sauce. It’s bold and crunchy and served as a banchan (side dish) alongside rice and grilled meats. Our spicy cucumber salad shares a similar flavor base.

What spices go well with cucumber?

Cucumbers pair beautifully with chili flakes, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and Szechuan pepper. For this spicy cucumber salad, chili oil and sesame give it a warm, aromatic kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint complement the heat and add brightness.

Spicy Cucumber Salad – Ultimate 5-Minute Fresh & Bold Recipe

Description

This spicy cucumber salad is crisp, tangy, and fiery—made with chili oil, soy sauce, and fresh herbs for a bold side dish ready in just 15 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 tbsp chopped mint (optional)
1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tsp sesame oil
1–2 tsp chili oil
1 tsp sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Chopped peanuts, extra chili flakes for garnish

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Instructions

Slice cucumbers thin and toss with salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then pat dry.
In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
Toss cucumbers with dressing, herbs, and scallions in a large bowl.
Let sit 10–15 minutes to marinate.
Top with sesame seeds, peanuts, and serve.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers for best texture.
Can be made 2 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Reduce chili oil for less heat.
Pairs well with grilled meats or rice bowls.

Prep Time: 10
Category: Salads
Method: Tossed
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: cup
Calories: 90
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 320
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 1
Unsaturated Fat: 4
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 7
Fiber: 1
Protein: 2
Cholesterol: 0