This Easy Thai Cucumber Salad is a refreshing treat! With crunchy cucumbers, zesty lime juice, and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for a warm day or as a fun side dish.
Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll want it at every meal! I love how quick it is to whip up—just toss the ingredients together, and you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Medium cucumbers work best for this salad. If you want extra crunch, try English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. They can be a bit sweeter and have fewer seeds.
Thai Red Chilies: These add heat to the dish, but if they’re too spicy for you, substitute with a milder chili like jalapeño or even omit them for a milder version. Sliced bell peppers can add color without the heat!
Fish Sauce: This is key for that umami flavor. If you’re vegan or avoiding fish, use soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative. Just be careful with the saltiness and adjust accordingly.
Palm Sugar: It adds depth, but you can use brown sugar or honey as substitutes. If you want to keep it vegan, go with agave syrup.
How Do You Get the Best Flavors from Your Salad?
To make sure the flavors blend well, let your salad sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing. This resting period allows the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. It can enhance the taste significantly!
- Start by whisking the dressing ingredients thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the vegetables and toss gently without crushing them—remember, you want a crisp salad!
- If you want an extra burst of flavor, try chilling the salad slightly before serving!
Easy Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Veggies:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
Herbs and Flavorings:
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar preferred)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend time slicing veggies, mixing the dressing, and letting the flavors combine. It’s quick and oh-so-refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Begin by grabbing a mixing bowl. Whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. Keep whisking until the sugar is dissolved completely. This dressing is going to bring so much flavor to your salad!
2. Add the Veggies:
Now, it’s time to add your sliced cucumbers, red onion, and Thai chilies to the bowl. Don’t worry if the chilies look spicy; you can always adjust the amount to your liking!
3. Toss it Up:
Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together. Make sure every slice of cucumber and onion gets a good coating of that tasty dressing. Be careful not to squish the veggies!
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, stir in the chopped cilantro and mint leaves. These herbs are what make this salad so refreshing, and they add a lovely fragrance!
5. Let it Sit:
Let your salad sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully for a more delicious dish.
6. Final Touches:
Right before serving, if you want an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed roasted peanuts on top. It adds the perfect finishing touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to enjoy this fresh and tangy salad! Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a fantastic side dish with your meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the crunch!
FAQ for Easy Thai Cucumber Salad
Can I Substitute the Fish Sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a non-fish option, soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce can work well. Just keep in mind that soy sauce can be saltier, so you might want to adjust the quantity to taste.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the peanuts separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing and slice the vegetables a few hours in advance. Just mix everything together shortly before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This salad is quite versatile! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to maintain the balance of flavors.
