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Fresh Cold Sesame Cucumber Noodle Salad Recipe with Easy Peanut Ginger Dressing

fresh cold sesame cucumber noodle salad - featured image

A quick, refreshing cucumber noodle salad tossed in a creamy peanut ginger dressing, perfect for hot summer days and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large English cucumbers
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons warm water
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 scallion, thinly sliced
  • Optional: 1 small carrot, julienned
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves
  • Optional: crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumbers. Using a spiralizer or julienne peeler, create long noodle-like strips and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle sea salt over the cucumber noodles and toss gently. Let sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently squeeze the noodles over a sink or colander to remove water.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, grated ginger, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and warm water until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed for a pourable consistency.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber noodles. Add toasted sesame oil and rice vinegar. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all noodles. Fold in optional carrot or herbs if using.
  5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sliced scallions, and crushed peanuts on top. Serve immediately or chill for 20-30 minutes for extra cold salad.

Notes

Salting and squeezing the cucumber noodles is essential to avoid a watery salad. Use fresh grated ginger for best flavor. Store dressing separately if making ahead to keep salad crisp. Adjust dressing thickness with warm water gradually.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber noodle salad, peanut ginger dressing, cold salad, summer salad, gluten-free salad, vegan salad option, easy salad recipe