Start by washing the Persian cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice them into ½ cm thick rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even texture and crunch in your Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad. Once sliced, place the cucumber rounds in a large mixing bowl for easy access while adding the other ingredients.

Next, prepare the additional vegetables. Dice the red onion and finely chop the jalapeno, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder heat. Toss the diced onion and jalapeno into the bowl with the sliced cucumbers. This combination creates a vibrant and flavorful base for your salad, blending the crispness of the cucumbers with the zesty kick of the peppers.

Now it’s time to create the creamy dressing! In the same mixing bowl, add in the room temperature cream cheese and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and coarse sea salt. If you’re using soy sauce, add that as well. Each ingredient contributes layers of flavor that will meld beautifully into your Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad.

With all ingredients in the bowl, gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated in the cream mixture. Be careful not to mush the cucumbers, as you want to maintain that delightful crunch. If you prefer, you can also use a jar to combine the ingredients—just make sure to shake gently. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the flavors throughout the salad.

Once well mixed, transfer the salad to a serving plate or bowl for a polished presentation. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a final touch of crunch and visual appeal. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to marry beautifully. Then, enjoy your refreshing and zesty Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad!