Vibrant & Tangy Thai Cucumber Salad 🥒🍋🌶️
1. Introduction
If you’re seeking a refreshing and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine, then the Thai cucumber salad is perfect for you. This vibrant cucumber salad combines crisp cucumbers, zesty lime, and spicy chilies for a delightfully tangy experience. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a summer barbecue or adding it to your healthy meal rotation, this tangy Thai salad is sure to impress. Its quick preparation and vibrant flavors make it a must-try for any food lover.
2. Ingredients for the Thai cucumber salad
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 2 small red chilies, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed peanuts for garnish
3. Step-by-step instructions for making the vibrant Thai cucumber salad
Preparing the Cucumbers
Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers. Thinly slice them using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform pieces. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
Mixing the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This tangy dressing will give your salad its vibrant flavor profile.
Combining Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Add the sliced red chilies, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Mix again for a flavorful combination.
Chilling and Serving
Refrigerate the Thai cucumber salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite Asian dishes or grilled meats.
4. Storage tips for this vibrant cucumber salad
Store any leftover vibrant cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that cucumbers may release additional moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal crunch and flavor.
5. Delicious serving suggestions for the tangy Thai salad
- Pair it with grilled chicken or seafood for a light, healthy meal.
- Use as a topping for fish tacos or Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches.
- Enjoy it alongside your favorite summer BBQ dishes to add a spicy zest.
- Combine with other Asian-inspired dishes like zesty citrus shrimp salad for a vibrant meal spread.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Thai cucumber salad
Can I customize the heat level in this vibrant cucumber salad?
Absolutely! Adjust the number of red chilies or remove seeds to control spiciness. For a milder flavor, omit the chilies altogether and add a touch more honey for sweetness.
Are there healthy substitutions for ingredients?
Yes. You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make the salad vegan. Use organic cucumbers and fresh herbs for more nutritional benefits.
How long does it take to prepare this tangy Thai salad?
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to assemble for any occasion.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Mandoline slicer – for evenly sliced cucumbers, ensuring crisp texture.
- Whisk and small mixing bowl – makes preparing the dressing effortless and mess-free.
- Glass storage container – to keep leftovers fresh and crisp.
8. Explore more delicious Thai-inspired recipes
Looking for more ways to bring authentic Thai flavors into your kitchen? Check out these popular recipes:
9. Conclusion
The Thai cucumber salad is more than just a side dish—it’s an explosion of vibrant and tangy flavors that elevate any meal. Its refreshing crunch and zesty dressing make it a perfect addition to your summer menu or everyday meals. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll want to make this vibrant cucumber salad again and again. Give it a try and enjoy the authentic taste of Thailand right in your own kitchen!
Print
Vibrant & Tangy Thai Cucumber Salad
Experience the refreshing and vibrant flavors of this Thai cucumber salad, a perfect combination of crisp cucumbers, zesty lime, spicy chilies, and fresh herbs. Ideal as a side dish for summer barbecues or healthy meals, this tangy and colorful salad is quick to prepare and packed with authentic Thai flavors.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 2 small red chilies, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers. Thinly slice them using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform pieces. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This tangy dressing will give your salad its vibrant flavor profile.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly. Add the sliced red chilies, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Mix again for a flavorful combination.
- Refrigerate the Thai cucumber salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite Asian dishes or grilled meats.
Notes
- Store any leftover vibrant cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For extra crunch, serve immediately or gently toss before serving if stored overnight.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red chilies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 80 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg