This refreshing Thai cucumber salad is crisp and bright, perfect for a warm day! It comes together easily with crunchy cucumbers and a tasty sweet and spicy dressing.
You’ll love how quick this salad is to make—just toss everything together and you’re ready to go! I enjoy it as a side with grilled meats or just as a snack. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use English cucumbers for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work well too! Just slice them thinly to keep the salad light and refreshing.
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using green onions or shallots. You can also soak the red onion in water for a few minutes before adding it to reduce its bite.
Red Chili: Fresh Thai bird’s eye chili is great for spice! If you can’t find it, use serrano or jalapeño peppers, but adjust the amount to your taste. For a milder option, leave the seeds in.
Cilantro: This herb brightens up the salad, but if you’re not a fan, try mint or basil as substitutes for a different flavor twist.
Fish Sauce: It gives a unique umami flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, use soy sauce or a plant-based fish sauce alternative!
How Do You Make the Dressing Flavorful and Balanced?
The dressing is the heart of this salad, so balancing the flavors is key. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Start with acid: Rice vinegar adds tanginess, while lime juice gives it brightness. Adjust according to your taste—add more lime juice if you like extra zing!
- Sweetness: Sugar balances the heat and acidity. Palm sugar works for authenticity, but regular sugar is just fine. Taste and add more if needed.
- Savory: Fish sauce adds depth. If you’re substituting this, remember soy sauce will also bring a good savory note.
- Mix it well: Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved before pouring it over the salad. This makes sure every bite is delicious!
Easy Thai Cucumber Salad with Sweet and Spicy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or palm sugar)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple salad requires about 15 minutes of preparation time. With a quick mix and a little sitting time to let the flavors combine, you’ll be ready to enjoy this dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Begin by slicing the cucumbers, red onion, and red chili. Place these into a large mixing bowl. Add the freshly chopped cilantro to the bowl. This will create a colorful and vibrant base for your salad!
2. Make the Sweet and Spicy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar has completely dissolved. This dressing is what brings the whole dish together with a nice balance of flavors.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure each piece is well-coated in the delicious dressing. This step is essential for ensuring all those flavors meld beautifully.
4. Let it Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes. This will give the ingredients time to soak up the dressing, enhancing the overall taste. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for a cooler, refreshing treat.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with toasted sesame seeds if you like. They add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the salad perfectly.
6. Enjoy Your Salad!
This Thai cucumber salad is a perfect side dish for grilled meats, noodles, or even enjoyed on its own! Enjoy the refreshing, zesty flavors!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Cucumbers?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even thinly sliced radishes to give your salad more crunch and color. Just make sure to slice them thinly to keep the texture light and refreshing.
How Spicy Is This Salad?
The heat largely depends on the red chili you use. If you prefer milder flavors, remove the seeds and use less chili. Alternatively, you can substitute with a milder pepper, like a green bell pepper, for added color without the heat.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! It’s best to make it a few hours in advance so the flavors have time to meld. However, for the freshest taste, add the dressing right before serving. If you prepare it early, keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before enjoying.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so just give it a stir before serving again to mix everything together!
