Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews

Name: Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup roasted cashews, chopped; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I love the freshness of a good salad, and this Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews is my go-to when I want something light yet packed with flavor. The crisp cucumbers paired with the crunch of cashews create a delightful texture, while the spice level is perfectly balanced. I often whip this up as a side dish for barbecues or just to enjoy on a hot summer day. It's not only quick to prepare but also refreshing, making it an ideal companion for any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-13T15:38:19.355Z

When I first made this Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews, I was amazed at how easily such incredible flavors came together. The key for me was to let the cucumbers marinate briefly in the spicy dressing, which really enhances their crispness and allows them to absorb all those delightful flavors. It creates a salad that's both healthy and satisfying.

I also love adding freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra burst of freshness. Each bite is a refreshing crunch that keeps me coming back for more, and it's become a regular fixture at our family gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crunchy cashews add a delightful texture
Spicy kick that wake up your taste buds
Perfect as a side or light main dish

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For this Spicy Cucumber Salad, using fresh, crunchy cucumbers is essential to achieve the desired texture. Look for cucumbers that feel firm and have vibrant, green skin. If you cannot find large cucumbers, consider using English cucumbers, which tend to have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. The crispness of the fresh cucumbers complements the crunch of the cashews, making every bite enjoyable. Furthermore, avoid cucumbers that appear dull or wrinkled, as they may lack the moisture and crunch that this dish requires.

The quality of the cashews plays a crucial role in this salad’s overall flavor. Opt for roasted cashews instead of raw, as the roasting process enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of depth. If you need a substitute, you could use toasted almonds or sunflower seeds; however, remember that this will slightly alter the dish’s flavor profile. Always chop the nuts just before mixing them in to maintain their crunchiness, as they can become soft when stored.

Balancing Flavors

Achieving the right balance between the spicy and savory components in this salad is key. The chili paste provides heat, which can vary widely in intensity. Start with 2 teaspoons, then taste and adjust to your heat preference. If you find it too spicy, consider adding an additional teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Alternatively, you can substitute the chili paste with Sriracha or a milder chili sauce if you prefer a subtler kick.

The combination of soy sauce and rice vinegar adds layers of umami and acidity that elevate the dish. If you're avoiding soy, tamari or liquid aminos can be excellent gluten-free alternatives. For a slightly different flavor, try swapping rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar, but be wary of the stronger taste – a little goes a long way. Ensuring the dressing is well-mixed is important, so whisk until fully blended; you'll know it's ready when it achieves a glossy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 cup roasted cashews, chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt to taste
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to make this refreshing salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad.

Prep the Cucumbers

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with some salt. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to draw out excess water, then drain and pat dry.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained cucumbers, chopped cashews, and green onions to the dressing. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for a bit before serving for enhanced flavors.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint right before serving.

Storage Tips

If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, prep the ingredients separately to keep everything fresh. Store the cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days before serving. For the dressing, mix all ingredients and store it separately; this helps prevent the cucumber from becoming too watery. Simply toss everything together right before serving to maintain the crispness.

Leftovers, if any, can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but keep in mind that the cucumbers will release water as they sit. If they start to become soggy, consider straining out the excess liquid before serving. You might also refresh leftovers with a little extra dressing and a handful of freshly chopped green onions.

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Cucumber Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or use it as a topping for tacos or rice bowls to add a refreshing crunch. You can also pair it with protein-rich dishes, like grilled chicken or tofu, for a light but satisfying meal.

For a more substantial dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the salad for extra protein. This not only enhances the texture but also makes the salad heartier. A sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving can further elevate the dish, adding an extra nutty dimension that complements the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the cashews just before serving to maintain their crunch.

→ What can I substitute for cashews?

You can use peanuts or almonds as a substitute for cashews if you have a nut allergy or preference.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of chili paste or add sliced chili peppers for extra heat.