Ingredients

Coarse salt

1 pound thin spaghetti

1/2 cup smooth peanut butter, preferably natural

1 to 2 garlic cloves

1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/3 cup rice vinegar

2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

1 English cucumber, peeled and halved lengthwise

2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded

Preparation

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain, and transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, make peanut sauce: In a blender or food processor, blend peanut butter, garlic, pepper flakes, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.

Cut cucumber crosswise into thirds; cut each piece lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices. Stack slices; cut lengthwise into very thin strips. Transfer pasta to a large bowl; toss with sauce, cucumber, and carrots. Serve at room temperature.