Name: Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound English cucumbers; 1/3 cup red onions, sliced; 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 1 clove garlic, grated; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon sambal (spicy chili paste); 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sweetener (e.g., sugar or sugar substitute); 1 teaspoon salt

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Introduction

Thai Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and zesty side dish perfect for warm days or as a complement to spicy meals. Crisp cucumbers mixed with tangy lime dressing, peanuts, and fresh herbs create a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

This image shows a close-up of a cucumber salad with layers of thinly sliced cucumbers that have a fresh green skin and pale green inside. The cucumbers are mixed with thin rings of purple-red onion, small bits of chopped peanuts adding a crunchy texture, green cilantro leaves scattered throughout, and white sesame seeds sprinkled over the top. There are small red chili flakes spread across, giving a hint of spiciness. The salad looks fresh and moist with a light dressing making the cucumber slices glisten. The photo was taken on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound English cucumbers
1/3 cup red onions, sliced
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
1 clove garlic, grated
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons Sambal (chili paste)
1 teaspoon sweetener (such as sugar or alternative)
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and dry the cucumbers. Slice them on the bias for a more attractive presentation. Optionally, peel some of the skin to improve texture.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, grated garlic, lime juice, Sambal, salt, sesame oil, and sweetener to prepare the dressing. Whisk well until all ingredients are blended.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, chopped peanuts, sliced red onions, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers.
Use toasted peanuts to enhance the nutty flavor.
Adjust the level of Sambal to control the spiciness according to your taste.
Substitute fresh lime juice with lemon juice if lime is unavailable.
Add a pinch of sugar or honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.

Storage

Store the Thai Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 1-2 days for maximum freshness and crunch. Before serving, toss the salad again as some dressing may settle. Avoid refrigerating for too long to prevent cucumbers from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers can be used, but they have more seeds and a higher water content which might make the salad a bit more watery. Peeling and deseeding them can help improve texture.

Is this salad spicy?

The heat depends on the amount of Sambal chili paste used. You can adjust the quantity or omit it altogether if you prefer a mild salad.