This Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad is light, zesty, and full of crunch! Made with refreshing cucumbers, bright herbs, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect as a side dish or a snack.
I love how it comes together in no time! Plus, it’s a great way to beat the heat with something cool and tasty. Just chop, mix, and enjoy—quick and delish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a refreshing taste. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel them if the skin is thick.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice color and mild flavor. You can substitute it with green onions for a lighter taste or use sweet onions for a subtle sweetness.
Thai Chilies: These chilies can pack a punch! If you prefer less heat, try using jalapeños or even red bell pepper for flavor without the spice.
Fish Sauce: This ingredient adds a savory depth to the salad. If you want a vegetarian substitute, consider using soy sauce or coconut aminos, but the flavor will vary a bit.
Palm Sugar: You can swap palm sugar with light brown sugar or even honey. Just keep in mind that honey is sweeter, so you might want to reduce the amount slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture with Cucumbers?
To ensure your cucumbers are crispy and not soggy, start by salting them! The salt draws out excess water, keeping them crunchy. Here’s how:
- Slice the cucumbers and place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- After resting, gently squeeze them and transfer to a bowl. This extra step makes a big difference!
Follow this tip, and your salad will have a fresh and crispy bite every time!
Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or regular), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 fresh red Thai chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to heat preference)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp palm sugar or light brown sugar
For the Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Just chop and mix everything, then let it cool in the fridge while the flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cucumbers:
Start by placing the thinly sliced cucumbers in a colander or sieve. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water. After that, gently squeeze them to remove any extra moisture, then transfer to a mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the Veggies:
Add the thinly sliced red onion and Thai chilies to the cucumber bowl. This colorful combo brings a lovely crunch and a kick to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. This will create a tangy-sweet dressing that enhances the salad’s flavors!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add in the chopped cilantro and mint (if you’re using it), then give everything one last gentle toss. The fresh herbs will brighten up the dish perfectly!
6. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts and toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch. Enjoy this cool and refreshing side dish!
FAQ for Fresh Thai Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are preferred for their sweetness and fewer seeds, regular cucumbers work just as well. Just peel them if the skin is thick for a better texture in the salad.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To make the salad more or less spicy, simply adjust the number of Thai chilies you use. For milder flavor, you can also remove the seeds from the chilies or substitute with sweet bell peppers for a colorful twist without the heat.
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more water as they sit, so you may want to squeeze out excess moisture again before serving to keep it crisp!
What Pairing Suggestions Do You Recommend?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for tacos. It’s the perfect side dish for any Thai-themed meal, but also complements a variety of other cuisines beautifully!
