Spicy Cucumber Noodle Bowl (Printable View)

Light spiralized cucumber with zesty chili sauce and crunchy toppings for a fresh, vibrant lunch or side.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, spiralized or julienned
02 - 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional)
03 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Sauce

05 - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
06 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
08 - 1 tablespoon chili crisp or chili oil (adjust to taste)
09 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
10 - 1 clove garlic, finely minced
11 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
12 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

→ Toppings (optional)

13 - 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts or cashews, chopped
14 - Extra chili crisp
15 - Lime wedges

# How to Make:

01 - Spiralize the cucumbers and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a large bowl, mix spiralized cucumber, carrot, scallions, and cilantro.
03 - Whisk together soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili crisp, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and sesame seeds until well blended.
04 - Pour sauce over vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
05 - Divide the mixture between bowls and top with chopped nuts, additional chili crisp, and a squeeze of lime if desired.
06 - Serve immediately to preserve the crunch and freshness.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's ready in 15 minutes, no stove required, which means you can make it even when you're in a mood to avoid the kitchen heat.
  • The sauce has this perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet that makes you keep reaching for another bite.
  • It feels light and fresh but still satisfies—you won't feel sluggish afterward, just energized.
02 -
  • Pat your cucumbers completely dry or you'll end up with a watery puddle at the bottom of your bowl instead of a sauce-coated noodle experience.
  • Make the sauce first and taste it—every bottle of chili crisp and sesame oil brand tastes slightly different, so adjust the ratios to your palate before committing to the whole bowl.
03 -
  • Chill your serving bowls in the freezer for five minutes before serving—the temperature contrast with the cool vegetables makes the whole experience feel more luxurious and refreshing.
  • Use a microplane to grate your ginger and garlic instead of mincing by hand; the texture dissolves into the sauce more seamlessly and distributes better.
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