If you’re craving something vibrant, packed with bold flavors, and refreshingly crisp, this Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly balances creamy, spicy peanut sauce with the cool crunch of cucumber, bringing an irresistible Asian-inspired noodle dish that feels both comforting and light. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these noodles deliver on taste and texture in every bite, making them a forever favorite in my kitchen and hopefully yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these noodles is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play their own unique role—from buttery smooth peanut flavor and spicy kick to the fresh crunch and aromatic notes. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start:
- 8 oz noodles: Choose spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba to suit your preference—each brings a slightly different texture but all work beautifully.
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter: The heart of the sauce, providing rich, nutty creaminess that envelops every strand of noodle.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a salty umami depth that balances the sweetness and spice.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Delivers brightness and a subtle tang to lighten the richness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, fragrant layer of flavor that makes the dish feel authentically Asian.
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce: This brings the perfect spicy punch—adjust to your liking for milder or bolder heat.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to play against the spicy and salty notes.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic adds a sharp, aromatic underpinning that wakes up the whole sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Brings fresh zing and a subtle warmth to the mix.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Used to thin the sauce to a perfect creamy consistency for tossing.
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced: Offers cooling crunch and freshness, balancing the spicy sauce beautifully.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Adds a mild oniony snap and vibrant green color.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: For nutty crunch and a pretty finish.
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro (optional): Extra garnishes that elevate texture and brighten flavors just before serving.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking your choice of noodles—whether it’s spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba—following the package instructions carefully. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together, ensuring a perfect texture when mixed with the sauce later.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Spicy Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, honey, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Add warm water little by little while whisking vigorously until the sauce is luxuriously smooth and creamy, with just the right consistency to coat every noodle.
Step 3: Toss Noodles with Sauce and Fresh Veggies
Transfer the cooled noodles into a large bowl and pour over the spicy peanut sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly so every noodle is coated in that luscious sauce. Then fold in the crisp, julienned cucumber and sliced green onions, mixing just enough to combine while keeping the cucumber’s refreshing crunch intact.
Step 4: Plate and Garnish
Divide the sauced noodles into serving bowls and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro if you want that extra layer of texture and vibrant color. This dish shines when served chilled or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile for any occasion.
How to Serve Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe
Garnishes
The toppings really bring this dish alive, enhancing both texture and flavor. I love adding crunchy chopped peanuts for bite, fresh cilantro for herbal brightness, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nuttiness that complements the peanut sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This noodle bowl pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed edamame, crispy spring rolls, or a simple Asian slaw. You can also round out the meal with grilled tofu or chicken skewers to add protein and make it more substantial.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation at your next dinner party, serve the noodles in individual clear glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers. Alternatively, toss everything in a large wooden bowl for a family-style feel that invites shared enjoyment. Adding thinly sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots not only adds crunch but also a pop of color that makes the dish even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the noodles are tossed in a rich sauce, they keep their flavor well. Just give the noodles a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the sauce evenly.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen, as the cucumbers and noodles may change texture and become soggy once thawed. If you want to prep in advance, consider making the sauce separately and mixing it with freshly cooked noodles and veggies when ready to eat.
Reheating
If you prefer your noodles warm, gently microwave them for short bursts, stirring in between to prevent the peanut sauce from drying out. Avoid overheating to keep the noodles tender and the sauce creamy. Alternatively, you can serve them chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing change.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut butter in this Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe?
Absolutely! While creamy peanut butter gives that classic flavor, you can experiment with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty twist. Just ensure the consistency is smooth for easy mixing with the sauce ingredients.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat level?
The spiciness mainly comes from the chili garlic sauce, which you can easily adjust. For less heat, reduce the amount or substitute with a milder sriracha. For a fiery kick, add more chili sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free rice noodles. This way, you keep all the flavors intact while making it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I add protein to make this a more substantial meal?
Definitely. Adding grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even edamame can turn this into a heartier meal. Just cook your protein separately and toss it in with the noodles and sauce at the end.
What other vegetables can I add for variety?
Shredded carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or even thinly sliced radishes add delightful crunch and color. Feel free to mix and match according to what you have on hand or seasonally available.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe brings together so many incredible flavors and textures in a dish that’s truly moreish and easy to make. It’s a personal favorite for warm days or whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal that feels special. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
Print
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber is a refreshing and flavorful Asian-inspired cold noodle dish featuring a creamy, spicy peanut sauce perfectly balanced with fresh cucumber and green onions. This easy vegetarian main course is quick to prepare and combines the nutty richness of peanut butter with bold flavors from soy sauce, chili garlic, and fresh ginger, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba)
Sauce
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (or sriracha, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup warm water (to thin sauce)
Vegetables and Garnishes
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
- Prepare the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and warm water until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting the water quantity as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
- Toss noodles with sauce: Place the cooled noodles in a large bowl and pour over the prepared peanut sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the noodles are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Add fresh vegetables: Add the julienned cucumber and sliced green onions to the noodles and toss again gently to combine everything evenly without bruising the vegetables.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the dressed noodles to individual serving bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the dish chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce and use rice noodles.
- For added protein, toss in cubes of tofu or grilled chicken before serving.
