This Thai cucumber salad is a crisp and cool dish that’s perfect for hot days! With fresh cucumbers, zesty lime, and a hint of spice, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a tasty way to add some crunch to any meal. Bring on the freshness! 🥒🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are crucial for that crisp texture. If you want to switch it up, try Persian cucumbers for their thin skin and sweet taste, or even English cucumbers, which are also refreshing.
Red Onion: Red onions give a nice crunch and color, but you can substitute with green onions for a milder flavor. If you’re looking for a sweeter option, try using shallots.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens the salad. If you’re not a fan, consider using fresh mint or basil instead. They all add a lovely herbal note.
Thai Red Chilies: These add heat, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you can’t find them, use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a similar kick.
Fish Sauce: It provides depth and umami. For a vegetarian version, substitute with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce made from mushrooms.
How Do I Ensure My Cucumber Salad Stays Crisp?
Keeping cucumbers crispy is key to a great salad! Start by slicing them thinly but not too thin, as they might become mushy. Here’s how you can make sure they stay that way:
- Consider salting the cucumber slices before mixing. Place them in a colander for about 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then rinse and dry.
- Don’t dress the salad until right before serving. This keeps the cucumbers from getting mushy.
- Serve the salad right away or chill it briefly before serving. This keeps it refreshing and crisp!
Refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or palm sugar)
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and allows for a brief 10-15 minute resting time to let the flavors develop. In just half an hour, you’ll have a delicious and vibrant side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a large bowl. The thinner you slice, the better they’ll soak up the dressing and be crunchy!
2. Add Fresh Herbs and Heat:
Next, add the roughly chopped cilantro leaves to the bowl. If you like a bit of spice, toss in the sliced Thai red chilies as well. They will add a nice kick to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, freshly squeezed lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. This dressing will give the salad a zesty and savory flavor.
4. Combine It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss everything together until it’s well combined. Try to coat everything evenly with the dressing!
5. Let It Rest:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time will help the flavors meld together and make the salad even tastier!
6. Adjust Seasoning:
After resting, give the salad a little taste. Feel free to adjust the salt or add more lime juice if you want it zestier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Just before serving, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for an added crunch. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish to your meal. Enjoy your vibrant Thai cucumber salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While regular cucumbers work well, you can also use Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste or English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. Just make sure they’re firm for the best crunch!
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you need a substitute for fish sauce, soy sauce is a great alternative for a similar umami punch. For a more authentic flavor, try using a vegan fish sauce made from mushrooms!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cucumber and onion together, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crunchy. If you do dress it beforehand, use less dressing, and you might want to serve it in the fridge to avoid sogginess.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Thai cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers can get soggy over time. If you have leftovers, know to enjoy them quickly!
