Thai Cucumber Salad is a bright, refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements. It’s a delightful way to enjoy cucumbers, making them more exciting and flavorful. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also serves as a great side dish or light meal option.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Thai Cucumber Salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is quick and easy to prepare, taking just a few minutes to whip up. It’s packed with fresh ingredients that provide various textures and flavors. Additionally, it’s a healthy option that can complement many main courses. Whether you are looking for a refreshing side dish, a light snack, or a vibrant addition to your meal, this salad ticks all the boxes!
How to Make Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1-2 red chili peppers (optional)
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and salt.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
- Add chopped peanuts and cilantro; stir gently.
- If using, slice red chili peppers and add them for heat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Thai Cucumber Salad
Thai Cucumber Salad can be served on its own or alongside your favorite dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats or as a refreshing side to spicy foods. You can serve it in small bowls as an appetizer or on a plate as a side salad.
How to Store Thai Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store the Thai Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within a day or two as the cucumbers may lose their crunch over time. If you plan to store it, consider keeping the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.
Tips to Make Thai Cucumber Salad
- Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
- Adjust the sugar and salt to your taste if you prefer a sweeter or saltier salad.
- Don’t skip on the peanuts and cilantro, as they add flavor and crunch.
- For extra zing, you can add a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or shredded carrots. If you want a different flavor profile, try using lime juice instead of rice vinegar or adding diced tomatoes for a twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the cucumbers’ crunch.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, all the ingredients in Thai Cucumber Salad are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.
Q: How spicy is this salad?
A: The salad’s spiciness depends on whether you add chili peppers and how many you use. You can adjust the heat to your liking or omit them altogether.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty Thai Cucumber Salad!
Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces cucumbers Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar Can substitute with lime juice for a different flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar Adjust to taste for a sweeter salad.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts Don't skip for added flavor and crunch.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Chopped.
- 1-2 pieces red chili peppers Optional, adjust according to your spice preference.
- to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the cucumbers thinly and place them in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and salt.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
- Add chopped peanuts and cilantro; stir gently.
- If using, slice red chili peppers and add them for heat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
