This Thai Cucumber Salad is crisp, cool, and bursting with flavor! Fresh cucumbers, carrots, and a zesty dressing make it a perfect side dish for any meal.
It’s so easy to whip up in just a few minutes! I love serving it with grilled chicken or just munching on it as a light snack. Plus, who doesn’t love a little crunch? 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Firm, crunchy cucumbers are a must! English cucumbers work really well, but you can use any variety. If you’re looking for a twist, try using Persian cucumbers for a slightly sweeter taste.
Carrot: Julienned carrots add color and a bit of sweetness. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged shredded carrots can save you some effort!
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and mint enhance the salad’s freshness. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley is a great substitute. For mint, dried mint can work in a pinch but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Chilies: Red Thai chilies add heat. You can swap them with jalapeños for a milder kick or omit them entirely for a family-friendly version.
Fish Sauce: This adds a savory depth. If you’re vegetarian, soy sauce or tamari is a perfect alternative. For a gluten-free version, choose tamari.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Tastes Amazing?
Key to a flavorful Thai cucumber salad is balancing the flavors. Make the dressing first and adjust to taste. Start with the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar—add a little, mix, and taste again!
- Let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes after tossing. This step allows the veggies to soak up the dressing.
- Before serving, give it another gentle toss to redistribute the flavors. Fresh toppings like peanuts or sesame should be added last for crunch!
Refreshing Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1-2 red Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or palm sugar)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and assembly. Just let it sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to enhance the flavors—a little patience goes a long way in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing the cucumbers into thick rounds. Place them in a large salad bowl. Then, julienne the carrot into thin strips and add it to the bowl along with the chopped cilantro and mint leaves.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), sugar, and minced garlic. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves. Don’t forget to adjust the dressing to suit your taste!
3. Combine Everything:
Add the finely chopped red Thai chilies to the dressing, adjusting for how spicy you want your salad. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss everything to mix evenly.
4. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes. This rest time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If possible, giving it up to 30 minutes is even better!
5. Finish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and toasted sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. You can serve this refreshing salad chilled or at room temperature—whatever you prefer!
Enjoy your bright, fresh, and crunchy Thai cucumber salad with a delightful mix of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are great for this salad, you can also use Persian cucumbers for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just make sure they are firm and fresh for the best crunch!
How Can I Make This Salad More Filling?
If you’d like to turn this salad into a more substantial dish, consider adding protein like shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Quinoa or cooked rice can also be added for extra heartiness.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dressing and cut the vegetables a few hours in advance, but keep them separate until just before serving. This way, the salad stays crisp, and the flavors are bright!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the cucumbers may release some water, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for optimal crunchiness!
