This Thai Cucumber Salad is super fresh and light! It’s packed with crunchy cucumbers, zesty lime, and a hint of sugar to balance the flavors. Perfect as a side dish!
Really, it’s like a party for your taste buds. I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a bright salad that pairs well with so many meals!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use firm, crisp cucumbers for the best crunch. English cucumbers are a great choice as they have fewer seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work well. You can peel them if you prefer a milder taste.
Red Onion: This onion adds a nice sharpness to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, try using green onions or sweet onions instead, which can be less intense.
Thai Chilies: Adjust the amount of chilies based on your heat preference. You can substitute with jalapeños if Thai chilies are hard to find. Just remember, they might not be as spicy, so use more if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro is traditional, but if you’re not a fan, try parsley for a different fresh flavor. Mint adds a lovely note, but it’s optional if you want to keep it simple.
Palm Sugar: If it’s unavailable, brown sugar is a good substitute. I often use it because it’s easy to find and gives a similar sweetness.
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from This Salad?
To really make the flavors pop, don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes helps all the ingredients meld. For extra crunch, add roasted peanuts just before serving so they stay crispy.
- Mix all the dressing ingredients until the sugar dissolves completely – this is key for balance.
- Make sure your veggies are sliced thinly for the best texture. A sharp knife will help!
- Toss gently to coat every bite evenly.
Refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 red Thai chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This refreshing salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare and just 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. In a total of about 25 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Fresh Veggies:
Start by slicing your cucumbers and red onion, making sure they’re thin for the best texture. Place them in a large bowl. Then, add the sliced Thai chilies, cilantro, and mint leaves. The more colorful and fresh it looks, the better!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Continue whisking until the sugar fully dissolves — this will bring a lovely sweet-sour balance to the salad.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each cucumber slice and onion piece is coated with the dressing. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor!
4. Chill the Salad:
Now, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and makes it even more refreshing.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch. Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats, spicy dishes, or simply enjoy it on its own!
Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Thai cucumber salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English Cucumbers?
Yes, you can! While English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, regular cucumbers will work just fine. If using regular cucumbers, you can peel them if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you like more heat, add additional Thai chilies or use a spicier variety, like serrano peppers. Alternatively, you can also mix in a dash of chili paste for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water, so it might become a bit watery. Drain any excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative. The salad will still be delightful and packed with flavor!
