The Cucumber & Walnut Salad with Peanut Butter Dressing is a delightful fusion of fresh, crisp vegetables and rich, creamy flavors that come together to create a truly unique salad. Bursting with texture from crunchy cucumbers, roasted walnuts, and sesame seeds, and topped off with a savory peanut butter dressing, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light, healthy lunch, or a refreshing side to complement a heavier main dish, this salad delivers on both taste and nutritional value.
Cucumbers are known for their hydrating properties and refreshing crunch, making them the perfect base for any salad. Paired with roasted walnuts for an extra crunch and healthy fats, the addition of sesame seeds and fresh parsley adds both flavor and visual appeal. The homemade peanut butter dressing ties everything together with its creamy texture, balanced with savory soy sauce, a touch of sweetness from agave syrup, and a little kick from garlic and black pepper.
What makes this salad truly stand out, however, is its versatility. The dressing can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter, spicier, or more savory. The crunchiness of the cucumbers and walnuts, combined with the richness of the peanut butter dressing, creates a satisfying and well-rounded dish that is both nourishing and delicious. Not to mention, it’s easy to prepare and comes together in no time, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or gatherings.
The best part about this salad is that it’s not just a quick meal – it’s also packed with nutrients. With a healthy dose of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins, this salad supports your overall well-being while keeping you full and satisfied. The peanut butter dressing provides a creamy, rich element, while the sesame seeds, walnuts, and soy sauce bring a unique depth of flavor. This is one dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Salad:
- 3 Cucumbers 🥒 (medium-sized)
- ¼ Cup (4 g) fresh Parsley, chopped
- ¼ Cup (36 g) roasted unsalted Walnuts, chopped
- 1 Tbsp (9 g) sesame seeds (preferably toasted for extra flavor)
Dressing:
- 3 Tbsp (45 ml) peanut butter 🥜 (smooth or crunchy, based on preference)
- ½ Tsp Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp (15 ml) sodium-reduced soy sauce
- 1 Tsp (5 ml) Agave Syrup (or Honey, depending on preference)
- 1 Garlic Clove 🧄, minced
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil 🫒 (extra virgin recommended)
Garnish:
- Fresh Chives (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- 1 Tbsp (15 g) Sweet Chili sauce
Steps on How to Make It
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Peel them if you prefer, or leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Place them in a large salad bowl. - Toast the Sesame Seeds:
In a small skillet, dry toast the sesame seeds over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and set aside. - Chop the Walnuts:
Roughly chop the roasted walnuts into smaller pieces, ensuring they remain large enough to add texture but small enough to mix well with the salad. Set aside. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, black pepper, soy sauce, agave syrup (or honey), minced garlic, and olive oil. The peanut butter might be thick at first, so continue whisking until the dressing reaches a smooth and pourable consistency. If the dressing is too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out to your desired texture. - Assemble the Salad:
Add the chopped parsley, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped walnuts to the cucumber slices. Drizzle the peanut butter dressing over the salad, making sure everything is evenly coated. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. - Garnish and Serve:
For a final touch, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top and sprinkle fresh chives if desired. The sweet chili sauce not only adds a bit of heat but also gives the salad an extra layer of sweetness and spice. - Enjoy:
Serve immediately or allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together. The salad is now ready to enjoy!
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
5 minutes (for toasting sesame seeds and walnuts)
Total Time:
15 minutes
Calories (per serving):
Approx. 250-300 kcal (depending on portion size)
Servings:
Serves 2-3 people
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless
This Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Peanut Butter Dressing is a versatile, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dish that can fit any occasion. The base of fresh cucumbers gives the salad a cool, hydrating element, which is perfect for hot summer days or as a light side dish with more hearty meals. The addition of walnuts not only provides a delightful crunch but also delivers a good dose of healthy fats, making this salad satisfying and nutritious.
What sets this salad apart is the unique peanut butter dressing. Peanut butter is often used in savory dishes across many cuisines, and in this recipe, it adds a creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor. The soy sauce and agave syrup balance the savory and sweet notes, creating a harmonious sauce that complements the cucumbers and other ingredients perfectly. The sweet chili sauce on top gives the dish an exciting final touch, adding both sweetness and a subtle heat to the mix.
This recipe has remained timeless because it combines freshness, health benefits, and bold flavors. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in a short amount of time, making it ideal for busy days or when you need a quick, satisfying meal. It’s a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, making it perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a solo treat.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fats: 19 g (mostly healthy fats from walnuts and olive oil)
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 220 mg (can be reduced by using a low-sodium soy sauce)
- Vitamins and Minerals: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Magnesium, and Iron
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. The cucumbers may release some water after sitting, so tossing everything together just before serving will keep the salad fresh and crisp.
2. Can I substitute peanut butter with something else?
Absolutely! If you have a peanut allergy or simply want a different flavor, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter.
3. How long will the salad last in the fridge?
If stored properly, the salad (without the dressing) can last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to store the dressing separately to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
Tips for Making the Perfect Salad
- For extra crunch: Add roasted chickpeas or pumpkin seeds for even more texture.
- Make it spicier: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing or extra sweet chili sauce.
- Customize the nuts: Feel free to swap walnuts for other nuts like almonds or pecans, depending on your preference.
- Vegan Version: Use agave syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based dish.
Storage Tips
To store the salad, it’s best to keep the cucumbers and the dressing separate. The cucumbers will release water as they sit, which could make the salad soggy. Store the salad components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, toss the cucumbers with the dressing and garnish.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Peanut Butter Dressing is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and delightful textures. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, this salad will impress with its balance of crunch, creaminess, and just the right touch of spice. It’s perfect for any time of year and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Its versatility, ease of preparation, and nutrient-packed ingredients make it a timeless choice, ideal for anyone looking to enjoy something both delicious and healthy. Plus, with the ability to customize and adjust to your personal tastes, it’s a recipe that will continue to evolve with your needs. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a salad that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying!