Name: Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2/3 cup Creamy Natural Peanut Butter; 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar; 2 1/2 tablespoons Gluten-Free Tamari or Soy Sauce; 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil; 2 teaspoons Agave or Honey; 1 teaspoon Fresh Lime Juice; 1 clove Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Finely Grated Ginger; Dash Red Pepper Flakes (to taste); 1/3 cup Warm Water; 2 large Seedless Cucumbers; 1/3 cup Fresh Cilantro (for garnish); 1/3 cup Chopped Peanuts (for garnish)

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Have you ever come home after a long day and craved something fresh, light, and bursting with flavor? That’s how I stumbled upon the magic of Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce. One warm summer evening, I was eager to whip up a dish that would tantalize my taste buds without heavy cooking. With a couple of crisp cucumbers in my refrigerator and a craving for something zesty, I decided to experiment with this vibrant combination. The creamy peanut sauce complemented the crunchy cucumber noodles perfectly, creating a dish that felt indulgent yet healthy.

As I twirled those refreshing noodles around my fork, I couldn’t help but think how this dish captures the essence of summer. The bright flavors and textures dance together, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also revitalizes the spirit. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or are simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, I guarantee Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce will become a favorite in your home. So, grab those cucumbers and let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Whisk, Grater, Chef’s Knife

Why This Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce Is a Winner

Refreshing and Light

One of the standout qualities of Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce is its lightness. In the heat of summer, the last thing you want is a heavy meal weighing you down. These cucumber noodles provide a refreshing alternative, offering a crisp texture that’s perfect for warm days.

Nutritious Ingredients

Not only is this dish light, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while the peanut sauce offers a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats. This balance makes it a guilt-free option for those watching their diet.

Quick and Easy to Make

When time is of the essence, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. Fortunately, Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce can be whipped up in no time! The peanut sauce comes together in just minutes, and with a simple julienne cut on the cucumbers, you’re ready to eat.

Versatile Dish

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Want it spicier? Just add more chili flakes. Prefer it sweeter? A little extra agave will do the trick. The options are endless.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a light dinner, Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce fits the bill. It’s an adaptable recipe perfect for any occasion!

Impressive Presentation

Let’s not forget about the aesthetics! The vibrant green of the cucumbers paired with the rich brown of the peanut sauce makes for an eye-catching dish. You can impress your guests without breaking a sweat.

What Goes Into Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Creating the perfect Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce relies on a harmonious blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a key role, contributing to the dish’s unique flavor profile. The fresh cucumbers provide crunch, while the creamy peanut sauce adds richness. Together, they create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light.

Creamy Natural Peanut Butter – 2/3 cup: This is the star of the show, bringing a rich creaminess and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Rice Vinegar – 2 tablespoons: Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the peanut butter.
Gluten-Free Tamari or Soy Sauce – 2 1/2 tablespoons: This salty component enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
Sesame Oil – 2 teaspoons: Contributes a nutty aroma and taste that complements the peanut butter.
Agave or Honey – 2 teaspoons: A touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
Fresh Lime Juice – 1 teaspoon: Brightens up the sauce with its acidity.
Garlic – 1 clove, minced: Adds a savory punch to the peanut sauce.
Finely Grated Ginger – 1 teaspoon: Introduces a warm, zesty note that enhances the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes – Dash to taste: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these flakes bring a nice spice to the sauce.
Warm Water – 1/3 cup: This helps achieve a silky smooth consistency for the sauce.
Large Seedless Cucumbers – 2: The main base for the dish, sliced into noodles.
Fresh Cilantro – 1/3 cup, chopped, for garnish: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
Chopped Peanuts – 1/3 cup, for garnish: Provides extra crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.

Directions for Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Making Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce is a delightful process. Each step brings you closer to a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying. I can assure you, following these directions will lead you to a fantastic outcome!

First, make the peanut sauce. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, rice vinegar, Tamari, sesame oil, agave, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth. You want a creamy, well-blended mixture, so take your time with this step.
Next, stir in garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Gradually whisk in warm water until the sauce reaches a smooth consistency. You might want to adjust the amount of water based on how thick you prefer your sauce.
Now, let’s prepare the cucumber noodles. Adjust the julienne blade on a mandoline to the 1/8-inch-thick setting. This is crucial for achieving the perfect noodle shape.
Carefully run one of the cucumbers down the blade, slicing it to form noodles. Pay attention to your fingers and go slowly to avoid any accidents.
Continue with the second cucumber, creating more noodles. If you don’t have a mandoline, you can use a julienne peeler or a spiralizer to achieve similar results.
Once your cucumber noodles are ready, place them on a plate or in a bowl. You want to create a nice bed for the sauce to sit on.
Drizzle the peanut sauce over the noodles. Be generous with the sauce as it’s packed with flavor.
Gently toss the noodles with the sauce to ensure every strand is coated in that delicious peanut goodness. This step is all about creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Top your dish with cilantro and chopped peanuts for garnish. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the texture and taste.
Serve your Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce and enjoy! This dish is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Things Worth Knowing

Use a Mandoline: For perfectly uniform cucumber noodles, a mandoline is ideal.
Adjust Thickness: Feel free to adjust the thickness of your noodles based on your personal preference.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the peanut sauce in advance for a quicker meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Tips for Success

To get the best results with your Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce, follow these helpful tips!

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to keep the peanut sauce separate until you’re ready to serve.
Freezing: This dish is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the cucumbers.
Pairing: Serve these noodles alongside grilled veggies or a light salad for a complete meal.
Adjusting Spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like basil or mint for a twist on the flavor profile.

How to Serve Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Serving Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve this refreshing dish:

As a Light Lunch: This dish is perfect on its own for a quick and healthy lunch option.
With Grilled Proteins: Pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.
Summer Picnics: This dish is a fantastic addition to any summer picnic or barbecue gathering.
Garnish Options: Consider garnishing with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Storage Tips: Keep the noodles and sauce separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Occasions: Ideal for casual family dinners or potluck gatherings.

FAQ

Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce for Tamari in Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce. However, if you are aiming for a gluten-free version, make sure to stick with Tamari, which is specifically formulated without wheat. Regular soy sauce contains wheat and gluten, so it’s best to check your dietary needs before making the swap.

To make Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce vegan, simply use agave syrup instead of honey. Agave is a plant-based sweetener that will give you the sweetness you need without using any animal products. The rest of the ingredients in this dish are naturally vegan-friendly, making it a great option for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle.

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can elevate your Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce into a more filling meal. The flavors of the peanut sauce pair beautifully with these proteins, making it a versatile dish that can cater to various preferences.

Leftover Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. It’s best to keep the noodles and peanut sauce separate until just before serving to maintain their freshness. When ready to eat, simply combine the noodles with the sauce and enjoy!

Conclusion

Cucumber Noodles with Peanut Sauce is a refreshing and satisfying dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it a delightful choice for any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the burst of flavors for yourself!