This Easy Thai Cucumber Salad is refreshing and full of flavor, thanks to crunchy cucumbers and zesty herbs like mint and cilantro. It’s a perfect side for any meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up this salad—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Pair it with grilled chicken or fish, and you’ve got a tasty combo. Your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers are great because they have a thin skin and fewer seeds. If you can’t find these, regular slicing cucumbers will work too. Just peel them for a less bitter taste.
Red Onion: The sweet flavor of red onion adds a lovely crunch. If red onion is too strong for you, try using green onions or shallots instead.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and mint are key to this salad’s flavor. If you don’t like cilantro, you can swap it for parsley. Thai basil adds a unique punch, but regular basil works too if you can’t find it.
Fish Sauce: This gives the salad its umami kick. For a vegetarian option, soy sauce or tamari are good substitutes. Just adjust the salt level since soy sauce can be saltier.
Peanuts: Roasted peanuts add crunch, but feel free to replace them with almonds or sunflower seeds if desired. For a nut-free version, omit them altogether.
How Can I Keep My Cucumber Salad Crunchy?
The trick to a crunchy cucumber salad is managing moisture. First, after slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps pull out extra water.
- Drain off any liquid collected at the bottom of the bowl to keep your salad from becoming soggy.
- Assemble the salad with the dressing just before serving, or chill for a short time to let the flavors blend without losing the crunch!
Easy Thai Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh Thai basil (optional), chopped
- 1-2 small red chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (white or palm sugar)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 15-20 minutes for chilling. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and red onion. If you want to keep your salad crunchy, sprinkle a little salt on the cucumber slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. After that, drain any liquid that accumulates.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and minced garlic. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a bright, tangy dressing that will bring the salad to life!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss everything gently to make sure all the veggies are coated with the dressing.
4. Add Fresh Herbs and Chili:
Now it’s time to add the chopped cilantro, mint, Thai basil (if you’re using it), and sliced chili peppers. Stir gently one more time to mix in these flavorful ingredients.
5. Serve or Chill:
Transfer the salad into a serving dish. If you like, sprinkle some crushed roasted peanuts on top for added crunch. You can serve it right away or chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Enjoy!
Your Easy Thai Cucumber Salad is ready to be enjoyed! It’s fresh, delicious, and sure to impress.
FAQ for Easy Thai Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the dressing to complement the new flavors.
What If I Don’t Have Fish Sauce?
You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian version. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great choice. Just keep in mind that soy sauce is saltier, so you might want to reduce the amount slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best to eat it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients except for the dressing and peanuts, then add them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
