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; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cashews, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

I love making this Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews during the warmer months. The burst of fresh ingredients combines so well, creating a dish that is both refreshing and bold in flavor. As soon as I take the first bite, the crunchiness of the cucumbers paired with the zestiness of the dressing makes my taste buds dance. Plus, the cashews add a delightful creaminess that elevates the whole experience. It’s quick to prepare and always a hit at gatherings.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:50:18.842Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such complex flavors. The combination of fresh cucumbers and a spicy dressing gave it an unexpected kick that everyone loved. I remember adding the cashews at the last minute and realizing how they balanced the crunch and heat perfectly. Now, it’s one of my go-to sides!

One tip I've learned is to let the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld together. The longer it rests, the more vibrant and integrated the flavors become. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or potlucks! Each serving is refreshing, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh flavors that awaken the palate
Crispy cucumbers combined with crunchy cashews create a delightful texture
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

The freshness of your cucumbers is crucial for achieving the crisp texture that defines this salad. Look for firm cucumbers with smooth, unblemished skin. If you can, opt for English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which enhances the overall flavor and texture of the salad. When slicing, aim for uniform pieces; this will not only create a more aesthetically pleasing dish but also ensure that each bite has the right balance of flavors.

Equally important is the quality of your cashews. Fresh, unsalted cashews will offer a creamy crunch that plays nicely against the crisp cucumbers. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using roasted cashews instead. Their depth of flavor can add another layer to the salad, complementing the heat from the chili garlic sauce. Remember to roughly chop the cashews just before adding them to preserve their texture.

Perfecting the Dressing

Creating the dressing is a critical step that can elevate your salad immensely. The combination of chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil provides the dish with a perfect savory base. Don't hesitate to taste and adjust the dressing as you go; if you prefer a tangier flavor, add an extra splash of rice vinegar. Conversely, if the heat is too intense for your tastes, a bit more honey or agave syrup will balance it nicely.

Consider letting the dressing sit for a few minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a more cohesive taste experience when you combine it with the salad. The dressing should have a slightly glossy appearance when finished, which indicates that the ingredients have blended well. A good dressing not only complements the ingredients but also enhances their natural flavors, making this step essential.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delightful Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cashews, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spicy Cucumber Salad with Cashews:

Prepare the Cucumbers

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion. Gently toss to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Add the chopped cashews, salt, and pepper, then toss gently until everything is well coated.

Serve

Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.

Enjoy this vibrant salad as a refreshing side or a light main dish!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding more chili garlic sauce or fresh chili slices. You can also substitute the cashews with peanuts for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of this Spicy Cucumber Salad is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. You can slice your cucumbers and red onion a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just add the dressing and cashews right before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch. This not only saves time but also allows the vegetables to stay fresh and vibrant for your main meal.

If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some of their crispness due to the moisture released after resting in the dressing. To combat this, drain off any excess liquid before serving the leftovers, and consider adding a few fresh cucumber slices to refresh the dish.

Flavor Variations

If you're in the mood for variations, consider adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch. These ingredients not only enhance the salad’s visual appeal, but they can also add different flavors and textures. For a protein-packed version, feel free to mix in grilled chicken or shrimp, which will make this salad a more filling option.

You can also switch up the nut component by using toasted almonds or peanuts, which will change the flavor profile while adding a lovely crunch. Experimenting with fresh herbs, such as mint or basil, can also introduce a refreshing note that complements the salad wonderfully. Don't hesitate to make this dish your own. Each variation can bring something new to the table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers and carrots would make great additions or substitutes.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, just ensure you use agave syrup instead of honey for a completely vegan version.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

I recommend consuming any leftovers within two days for the best texture and flavor.