Thai Cucumber Salad
Introduction
A refreshing salad can brighten any meal, and Thai cucumber salad is one of those dishes that manages to balance lightness with bold flavor. Crisp cucumbers bring a cooling texture while the dressing delivers a vibrant mix of sweet, salty, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. It is often served alongside grilled meats, seafood, or rice-based dishes, but it can also stand alone as a simple starter. The combination of crunchy vegetables and a well-balanced dressing makes this recipe not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Families and home cooks love it because it does not require complicated ingredients or lengthy steps, yet it provides a taste that feels like a restaurant-quality side. The freshness of the cucumbers paired with the kick of chili and the zing of lime creates a harmony that appeals to both adventurous eaters and those who prefer something simple.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a list of the ingredients required for Thai cucumber salad along with their approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cucumbers | 3 medium | 135 |
| Red onion | 1 small | 45 |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup | 1 |
| Rice vinegar | 3 tbsp | 9 |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | 48 |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp | 10 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | 10 |
| Red chili flakes | ½ tsp | 2 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | 40 |
| Crushed peanuts | 2 tbsp | 110 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.
Step 2: Slice the cucumbers thinly into even rounds or half moons.
Step 3: Place the slices in a bowl sprinkle a pinch of salt and rest for ten minutes.
Step 4: Drain the released liquid and gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove excess water.
Step 5: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the cucumbers.
Step 6: Whisk rice vinegar lime juice sugar soy sauce and fish sauce until the sugar dissolves.
Step 7: Stir in sesame oil and a pinch of red chili flakes to finish the dressing.
Step 8: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onion and toss until evenly coated.
Step 9: Chill the salad for fifteen minutes then top with cilantro and crushed peanuts.
Step 10: Taste and adjust with more lime or a touch of sugar and serve cold.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
The salad can be adjusted depending on taste and dietary preferences. For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or carrots. If you prefer more heat, fresh Thai chilies can replace chili flakes. A vegetarian version can be made by removing fish sauce and doubling the soy sauce. To create a heartier dish, grilled shrimp or chicken strips can be added on top. You can also replace peanuts with cashews or sunflower seeds for a different nutty flavor. Experimenting with the dressing is another way to customize it, such as adding a hint of honey or ginger.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Thai cucumber salad provides an estimated 150 to 170 calories depending on portion size. It is naturally low in fat apart from the sesame oil and peanuts, which add healthy fats. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories while providing essential vitamins like vitamin K. The salad is also rich in antioxidants from fresh herbs and lime. When paired with protein or grains, it becomes a balanced addition to a meal.
Serving Suggestions
Thai cucumber salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, spicy pork skewers, or simple steamed jasmine rice. It also works well as a side dish for seafood dishes such as grilled salmon or shrimp. For a lighter meal, it can be enjoyed on its own with a slice of crusty bread. Serving it chilled on warm days makes it especially refreshing. Preparing it ahead of time enhances the flavor as the cucumbers have more time to absorb the dressing.
Conclusion
A well-made Thai cucumber salad offers the perfect balance of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs. It is quick to prepare, versatile, and adaptable to different tastes. Whether served as a side dish at a family dinner or as a refreshing starter at a summer gathering, it brings a burst of flavor and brightness to the table. Once you try it, the dish is likely to become a regular favorite because of its ease and delightful taste.