This Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad is perfect for hot days! Crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and zesty lime make it super refreshing. It’s light, colorful, and so easy to whip up!
Honestly, it feels like a party on my plate! I love to enjoy it with grilled chicken or fish for a nice summer meal. You’ll feel cool, and your taste buds will thank you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for their thin skin and crunchy texture. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work too, just peel them if skins are thick.
Red Onion: The slight bite of red onion adds great flavor. If it’s too strong for your taste, you could use green onions or sweet onions as a milder option.
Thai Red Chilies: These chilies pack a punch! For a milder salad, reduce the amount or swap them with jalapeños or bell peppers. Adjust based on your heat preference.
Fish Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, opt for soy sauce or a plant-based alternative instead. Just know the taste will differ a bit.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or mint could be nice substitutes. I personally enjoy the flavor of parsley!
How Do I Make the Dressing Balance Just Right?
The dressing is key to this salad’s flavor. Start by mixing the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and minced garlic in a bowl. Make sure to whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. If it’s too salty or strong, adding a tablespoon of water helps reduce the intensity. It’s all about finding that sweet, salty, and sour balance that suits your taste!
- Mix ingredients in a small bowl.
- Adjust the sweetness or acidity with more sugar or lime juice based on your preference.
- Let it sit a moment; flavors will develop further!
Happy cooking! This Thai Cucumber Salad is quick and colorful. It’s a lovely way to stay refreshed and enjoy summer produce!
Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts or cashews, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar preferred)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, to balance)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can let it marinate for 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavors, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for those hot days when you want something quick and cool!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped Thai chilies. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved. If you find this dressing too strong, feel free to add a tablespoon of water to balance the flavors.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers and red onion. Their crunch and sweetness create a lovely base for the salad!
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Toss gently to make sure every slice is coated evenly with that delicious dressing.
4. Add Freshness:
Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro and mix it together gently so you don’t bruise the herbs too much. This step brings a wonderful freshness to the salad.
5. The Crunch Factor:
If you’re using them, go ahead and sprinkle on the chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for that delightful crunch. It adds an extra layer of texture and flavor!
6. Let It Marinate:
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the ingredients to soak up all those yummy flavors from the dressing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your salad is ready! Serve it chilled or at room temperature as an outstanding side dish. Enjoy this crisp, tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy salad—it’s a perfect complement for any meal on a hot day!
This Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad is sure to be a hit! Your taste buds will love the combination of flavors, and you’ll feel refreshed and satisfied!
FAQ for Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and crunchy texture. However, if you only have regular cucumbers, just peel them if needed. They’ll still taste great!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, start with just one Thai chili, or use a small amount of jalapeño instead. You can always add more spice later, so it’s best to begin with less!
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative to Fish Sauce?
Yes! You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative available in stores. While it may change the flavor slightly, it will still provide a delicious umami taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will lose some crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you make it ahead, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness!
