This Thai cucumber salad recipe is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. It’s made with crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.
The preparation is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy this delightful salad in no time. Customize it with additional ingredients like peanuts or chili for an extra kick.
Simple and Refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad
The Thai cucumber salad recipe is a delightful dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal.
With its vibrant colors and crisp textures, this salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly refreshing.
Thinly sliced cucumbers paired with red onions and fresh herbs create a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
This salad is perfect for warm weather, serving as a light side dish or a refreshing appetizer.
The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy elements makes it a versatile addition to various cuisines, particularly Thai dishes.
Fresh Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish
At the heart of this salad are the fresh ingredients that contribute to its vibrant taste.
Cucumbers are the star of the show, providing a crisp and hydrating base.
When selecting cucumbers, opt for firm ones with a bright color for the best flavor.
Red onions add a mild sharpness, while fresh cilantro and mint bring aromatic notes that elevate the overall experience.
The addition of crushed peanuts not only enhances the texture but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Crafting the Zesty Dressing
The dressing is what truly brings this salad to life.
A simple mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and red chili flakes creates a tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile.
Whisking these ingredients together until the sugar dissolves ensures a smooth and cohesive dressing that coats the salad perfectly.
This dressing can be adjusted to suit personal preferences, whether you prefer it sweeter or spicier.
A drizzle of this zesty concoction over the salad transforms it into a refreshing dish that excites the palate.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this Thai cucumber salad is a quick and straightforward process.
With just a few steps, you can have a delicious side ready in about 15 minutes.
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion, then chop the fresh herbs.
Combine the sliced vegetables in a large bowl, pour the dressing over them, and toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top just before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be made ahead of time and chilled in the refrigerator for a short period.
Serving it cold enhances the refreshing qualities, making it an ideal dish for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch.
Adjust the level of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This Thai cucumber salad is not only tasty but also nutritious.
With low calories and a good balance of healthy fats and carbohydrates, it makes for a guilt-free addition to any meal.
The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the herbs contribute antioxidants that promote overall health.
Incorporating this salad into your diet can support hydration and digestion, thanks to the high water content of cucumbers and the digestive benefits of fresh herbs.
It’s a simple yet effective way to enjoy a healthy lifestyle while savoring delicious flavors.
Simple and Refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad
This Thai cucumber salad features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with a zesty dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. The recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Chop the cilantro and mint.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and red chili flakes until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, cilantro, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle with crushed peanuts if desired. Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g