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The Best Spicy Cucumber Salad

This bold cucumber salad comes together in minutes and delivers a perfect balance of heat, tang, and subtle sweetness. Crisp cucumbers and sliced green onion are tossed in a garlicky soy-based dressing with sesame and chili flakes, making it a fast side dish, snack, or starter with plenty of personality.
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Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: The Best Spicy Cucumber Salad
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4
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Ingredients

The Salad
  • 8 mini or Persian cucumbers
  • 1 green onion, ends trimmed and finely sliced
  • Sesame seeds
The Dressing
  • 1 ½ tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos (if gluten free)
  • 1 ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon crushed or full red chili flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Accordion Cucumbers
  • Wash and thoroughly dry the cucumbers, then trim off the ends.
  • Working one cucumber at a time, place it between two chopsticks.
  • Slice diagonally at a 45° angle along the top, making thin cuts while allowing the chopsticks to stop your knife before cutting through completely.
  • Turn the cucumber over and slice again, this time straight down at a 90° angle.
  • Avoid repeating the same angle, or the spiral effect won’t form.
  • Cut each finished cucumber in half and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  • Alternative: You may also thinly slice the cucumbers using a mandolin.

2. Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until fully combined.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to coat, being careful not to break them apart.
  • Finish with sliced green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
  • English Cucumber: Accordion cuts require mini or Persian cucumbers, but English cucumbers work just as well if cut into bite-sized chunks or slices.
  • Add Nuts: Stir in ½ cup chopped almonds, cashews, or peanuts for extra crunch.
  • Add Lettuce: Serve over chopped romaine, spinach, Boston lettuce, or iceberg to add volume.
  • Serving Ideas: This salad pairs easily with chicken, seafood, or other Asian-inspired dishes.
  • Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
Calories: 48 kcal | Carbohydrates: 9 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Saturated Fat: 0.2 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4 g | Sodium: 228 mg | Potassium: 221 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 5 g | Vitamin A: 296 IU | Vitamin C: 4 mg | Calcium: 32 mg | Iron: 1 mg
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