Looking for a salad that’s anything but boring? This Bartaco spicy cucumber salad recipe is here to spice up your meals with a perfect balance of heat and refreshment! Inspired by the viral Bartaco cucumber salad, this spicy cucumber salad is packed with bold flavors and is quick and easy to make.
Whether you’re craving a light snack, a tangy side dish, or something to pair with your favorite meal, this spicy salad recipe is just what you need. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this crowd-pleaser right at home!
What Makes Bartaco’s Spicy Cucumber Salad So Special?
If you’ve ever been to Bartaco, you’ve probably tasted their famous spicy cucumber salad—a dish that has quickly become a must-try for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors. What makes it so special? Well, this Bartaco cucumber salad is the perfect blend of heat, tang, and refreshing crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser in any setting. It’s a combination of the cool crispness of cucumbers, the spicy kick of gochujang, and a tangy finish from rice vinegar and sesame oil.
What truly sets it apart is its versatility. It’s not just a side dish; it works as a snack, an appetizer, or even as a light meal when you want something fresh and flavorful. The balance of flavors has made it a viral cucumber salad that foodies can’t stop talking about! Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, a casual dinner, or a potluck, this spicy cucumber salad is bound to steal the show. For another tasty side dish idea, try our Texas Roadhouse Broccoli Recipe.
Ingredients for Bartaco Spicy Cucumber Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Bartaco spicy cucumber salad:
- 2 cucumbers (Persian or English cucumbers work best)
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the spice)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 scallions (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (optional, minced for extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
Equipment and Tools
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 small)
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Tongs or salad servers
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time (Optional but Recommended): 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 People
This recipe is no-cook—just slice, mix, and chill!
How to Make Bartaco Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe
Let’s make Bartaco spicy cucumber salad at home! This recipe is easy, quick, and so delicious. You’ll love the spicy, crunchy, and fresh flavors.
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers: First, grab your cucumbers. Slice them thin. Persian cucumbers are the best, but English cucumbers work too. You can smash them with a rolling pin if you like. This makes them extra crunchy. You’ll love the texture!
Step 2: Make the Spicy Dressing: Now, let’s make the dressing. In a bowl, mix gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add sugar to balance the spice. Stir it all together. The smell is amazing!
Step 3: Toss the Salad Together: Next, add your cucumbers to a big bowl. Pour the dressing over them. Use a spoon or tongs to toss them well. Coat every cucumber with that spicy goodness. It’s that simple!
Step 4: Add the Garnishes: Finish the salad with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. You can also add some minced garlic if you want more flavor. Let the salad sit for 30 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
Watch How to Make
Tips for the Perfect Spicy Cucumber Salad
Here are some easy tips to help you make the bar taco cucumber salad recipe. These will take your salad to the next level.
1. Remove Water From the Cucumbers: First, cut your cucumbers and put them in a colander. Add a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. The salt helps pull out extra water, so your salad stays crunchy.
2. Adjust the Spice: If you’re worried about it being too spicy, just use less gochujang. You can always add more if you like heat. Start slow, and taste it. You can even try adding sriracha for a different type of spice.
3. Let It Sit for 30 Minutes: Give the salad some time to marinate. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in. It will taste so much better!
4. Add Garlic for Extra Flavor: If you love garlic, go ahead and add minced garlic. It will make the salad more flavorful. Just mix it well with the dressing so it blends in.
5. Make It Ahead of Time: This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it the night before and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. It gets even tastier as it sits.
How to Serve Your Spicy Cucumber Salad Like a Pro
To serve your Bartaco cucumber salad recipe easy like a pro, start with the freshest English cucumber. Slice the cucumber thinly, and cut the ends before adding them to a large bowl. For an extra crunch, consider incorporating mini cucumbers. To make this recipe truly shine, mix in fresh garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to achieve the perfect acidity. Add red pepper flakes or crushed red pepper to create a spicy sauce that pairs well with grilled salmon or tofu.
Once you’ve tossed the spicy cucumber salad together, let it chill in the refrigerator. This recipe is perfect for easy meal prep, as it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just remember to refrigerate it for at least minutes to release the flavors. Serve it as a perfect side dish at your next gathering or dinner party, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch. Check out Pinterest for more ideas on how to elevate this simple yet delicious dish!
FAQs About Bartaco Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy
Can I make the Bartaco cucumber salad less spicy?
Yes! To make the salad less spicy, use less gochujang. You can also add mild chili flakes instead for a gentler heat.
How long does the cucumber spicy salad last in the fridge?
The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge. However, it tastes best when served fresh!
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. Just peel and remove the seeds for the best texture.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Yes! You can add ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, or even tofu to customize the salad to your liking.
Is this Bartaco Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad a healthy option?
Yes, this salad is light, low in calories, and packed with fresh veggies. It’s a great choice for a healthy snack or side dish.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Is the spicy cucumber salad good for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. It stays fresh in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for quick, healthy meals.
How spicy is the Bartaco cucumber salad?
The salad has a moderate level of spice from gochujang. You can adjust the spice by using less gochujang or adding milder chili.
Can I serve this spicy cucumber salad with other dishes?
Yes, this salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, rice bowls, or as a side for any summer BBQ.
Can I use a different vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, you can swap rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. It will still taste great!
Why You’ll Love Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
This Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad recipe is so good! It’s fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor. The mix of spicy and cool makes every bite exciting. I first tried a spicy cucumber salad at a BBQ. At first, I wasn’t sure if I’d like it. But after one bite, I was hooked. The cucumbers were crisp, the spice was just right, and the vinegar added a tangy kick. It was perfect! This recipe is super easy. You can make it in just a few steps.
No special skills are needed. In just minutes, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it took hours. It works for any meal, whether you need a snack, a side, or something to go with grilled meat. It’s healthy, too. The fresh cucumbers are light but full of flavor. It’s simple and tasty, and you can enjoy it all week long. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s the perfect salad for any occasion!
Ready to Whip Up This Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad?
This cucumber salad bartaco is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and tangy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a fresh snack, a tasty side dish, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this spicy cucumber salad will hit the spot every time.
Grab your ingredients and make this delicious salad today! You won’t regret it. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and impress your friends and family with this viral cucumber salad. Happy cooking!
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