Why You'll Love It
- - Refreshing crunch that brightens any lunch
- - Simple ingredients you probably already have
- - Light heat that awakens the palate without overwhelming
- - Looks vibrant on the table, perfect for sharing
*"The balance of heat and coolness is just perfect – I could eat it every day!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Cucumbers: Choose firm, thin-skinned cucumbers; they stay crisp after dressing.
- Red pepper flakes: Adjust to taste; a little goes a long way for gentle heat.
- Rice vinegar: Adds bright acidity that balances the spice.
- Sesame oil: A dash gives a nutty aroma that rounds the flavor.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed for a zing that lifts the whole salad.
- Honey: Touch of sweetness to mellow the heat; optional.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Wash cucumbers, slice thinly, and pat dry; zest and juice the lime, measure vinegar and oil.
-
Flavor Development:
Combine the dressing ingredients and let them sit for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Texture Control:
Toss the cucumber slices with the dressing just before serving to keep them crisp.
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Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and a pinch of extra red pepper flakes for visual pop.
-
Serving Timing:
Serve immediately or let rest 10 minutes for the flavors to settle; never longer than an hour to keep crunch.
- Use a mandoline for uniform cucumber ribbons
- Add a handful of chopped fresh mint for extra brightness
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes
- Store the dressing separately if prepping ahead
Pro Tips
I often find a quiet moment at the kitchen window while the sun drifts in, letting the salad sit just long enough for the lime to perfume the cucumbers. It's a gentle ritual, and the final bowl looks like a garden after a light rain—glimmering, fresh, and ready to be enjoyed.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Cucumbers should be sliced thin for even coating
- Red pepper flakes are the source of the gentle heat
- Lime juice adds acidity and keeps the salad vivid
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely – thinly sliced carrots or radishes add color and extra crunch.
→ How spicy is it?
The heat is mild; you can increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
→ Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dressing and store separately; toss with cucumbers just before serving.
→ What if I don’t have sesame oil?
A light drizzle of neutral oil works, but you’ll miss the nutty aroma.
→ Is this salad vegan?
Yes, as written it is completely plant‑based.
→ How long will it stay fresh?
Best enjoyed within 2 hours for maximum crunch; refrigerate up to 4 hours if needed.
Chef's Tips
If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the red pepper flakes by half.,For extra zing, add a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce – but remember this will make the dish non‑vegan.,Serve chilled for the most refreshing experience.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
45
Calories
1g
Protein
6g
Carbs
2g
Fat
Taste Profile
Bright, crisp with a gentle heat
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Provides similar acidity with a hint of fruitiness.
Adds a different nutty note; use sparingly.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add a teaspoon of sriracha and extra red pepper flakes for a bolder kick.
Mediterranean Style
Mix in diced tomatoes, olives, and feta for a heartier take.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑salting the dressing; the vinegar already adds a salty bite.
- Slicing cucumbers too thick; they become soggy.
- Leaving the salad to sit too long; loss of crunch.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can whisk the dressing up to 24 hours ahead; store in the fridge and give it a quick shake before using.
Leftover Ideas
If any remain, keep the dressing separate and toss again before serving; the cucumbers stay crisp for a few hours.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Wash and slice cucumbers; zest and juice lime.
Prepare dressing by whisking vinegar, lime juice, honey, oil, and spices.
Toss cucumbers with dressing; let sit briefly.
Add sesame seeds and optional herbs; serve.
Spicy Cucumber Salad – Fresh and Zesty
Enjoy this spicy cucumber salad, a crisp, tangy mix perfect for a light lunch or snack. The cool snap of cucumber meets a gentle heat and bright acidity, making every bite feel like a brief, refreshing pause on a warm day.
Timing
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
0 Minutes
Total Time
10 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 02 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 03 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 04 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 05 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 06 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 07 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 08 Salt to taste
Optional Add‑Ins
- 01 Fresh mint leaves, torn
- 02 Thinly sliced radish
- 03 Chopped cilantro
Instructions
Wash cucumbers, slice them thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife, then place in a large bowl and pat dry with a clean towel.
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, lime juice, honey (if using), sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber ribbons, toss gently until every slice is lightly coated. Let sit for 5‑7 minutes so the flavors begin to mingle.
Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, fresh mint, and any optional add‑ins you like. Give the salad one final toss and enjoy immediately.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the red pepper flakes by half.
- 2 For extra zing, add a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce – but remember this will make the dish non‑vegan.
- 3 Serve chilled for the most refreshing experience.
Tools You'll Need
-
Mandoline or sharp knife
-
Large mixing bowl
-
Small whisk or fork
-
Measuring spoons
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Serving platter
Must-Know Tips
- Don't slice cucumbers too thick, otherwise they stay soggy.
- Let the dressing rest briefly; it helps the acidity marry the oil.
- Taste before adding salt; the vinegar already brings some saltiness.
Professional Secrets
- Use ice‑cold water to rinse cucumbers after slicing for extra crunch.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the dressing if the cucumbers are especially bitter.
- Toast sesame seeds lightly to release their nutty aroma just before serving.
Recipe by
Oliver Brooks“Every great meal begins with the perfect bite. My passion is crafting irresistible starters that wow.” 🧀🍢
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