This Spicy Cucumber Salad is the ultimate refreshing side dish. Not only is it light and crunchy, but the “accordion” cut creates a fun, spiraled texture that acts like a sponge, soaking up every drop of the garlic-soy dressing. It hits every flavor note—salty from the soy, tangy from the vinegar, sweet from the honey, and a lingering heat from the chili flakes. Whether you’re serving it as a quick snack or a side to grilled protein, it’s a vibrant addition to any meal.
Prep Time: 5 min | Total Time: 5 min
Key Ingredients
The Base
- Cucumbers: 8 mini or Persian cucumbers (their thin skin and small seeds are perfect for this).
- Garnish: 1 finely sliced green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
The Tangy Dressing
- Soy Sauce: 1 ½ tbsp (Use Tamari or Coconut Aminos for a gluten-free version).
- Rice Vinegar: 1 ½ tbsp (White wine vinegar works in a pinch).
- Sweet & Savory: 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup) and 2 large minced garlic cloves.
- Oil & Heat: 1 tsp sesame oil and 1 tsp red chili flakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- The Accordion Cut (The Fun Part):
- Place a cucumber between two chopsticks.
- Cut the cucumber at a 45° angle in thin slices. The chopsticks will stop your knife from cutting all the way through!
- Flip the cucumber over and make 90° straight cuts.
- Pull it gently—it should stretch like an accordion! Cut them in half and place in a bowl.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a small ramekin, whisk the soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and chili flakes until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Toss and Garnish: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Mix gently to ensure the spirals are coated without snapping.
- Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch!
Expert Tips & Variations
- The “Mandolin” Shortcut: If you’re in a rush, forget the spirals! Use a mandolin to create paper-thin slices. They will still soak up the dressing beautifully.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in ½ cup of crushed peanuts or cashews right before serving for a nutty, salty contrast.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this over a bed of chilled rice noodles or alongside Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon for a complete, healthy dinner.
Storage & Prep
- Fridge: This salad keeps well in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Pro Tip: As it sits, the cucumbers will release moisture, which dilutes the dressing slightly. If eating leftovers, give it a quick stir to redistribute the flavors!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Sodium | Fiber | Sugar |
| 48 | 9g | 1g | 1g | 228mg | 1g | 5g |
