The Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that dances on your palate with its crisp cucumbers, zesty lime, and fiery chilies. cucumber radish salad It’s the culinary equivalent of a cool breeze on a hot summer day, making it an ideal sidekick for any barbecue or picnic.
As you take the first bite, the crunchiness of the cucumbers meets the vibrant kick of chili and the tangy burst of lime, creating a symphony of flavors that leaves you craving more. This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that can elevate your lunch to new heights or become the star of your dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Its bold flavor profile combines heat and freshness in every bite
- The bright colors make it visually appealing, adding vibrancy to any meal
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course
Sharing this salad with friends at a summer gathering had them raving about how they couldn’t stop eating it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- English Cucumbers: Look for firm cucumbers with smooth skin; these are less bitter than regular ones.
- Red Chili Peppers: Fresh red chilies offer the right amount of heat; adjust quantity based on your spice tolerance.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Use fresh limes for a zesty flavor; bottled juice lacks that vibrant kick.
- Fish Sauce: This adds umami depth; choose high-quality fish sauce for best results.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with mint if you’re not a fan.
- Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the heat and acidity perfectly.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps to bring out all those delicious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. quick and easy pickles recipe.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse your cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons depending on your preference. The thinner, the better for crunch!
Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and finely chopped chili peppers until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Toss It All Together: In a larger mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers with chopped cilantro. Pour over the dressing and gently toss until everything is beautifully coated.
Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors mingle, making each bite even more delightful and refreshing.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer your Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra cilantro and chili slices if desired. Dig in while it’s chilled! For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken bowls recipe.
Enjoy this easy-to-make salad as part of your meals or even as a snack during hot days!
You Must Know
- This Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a refreshing explosion of flavors
- The crunch of cucumbers combined with spicy dressing creates a delightful contrast
- Perfect for picnics or as a light meal, it’s sure to impress your family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing cucumbers thinly for maximum crunch, then mix the dressing while the cucumbers drain to enhance flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies like bell peppers or add peanuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect balance of flavors, taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro for added brightness
- Avoid over-salting; the soy sauce already adds saltiness
Sometimes, I whip this up for gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe—I swear it has magical powers to bring people together!
FAQ
What can I serve with Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a topping on rice bowls. grilled shrimp tostadas. chimichurri grilled chicken bowl.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance but mix just before serving to maintain freshness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dressing?
Absolutely! Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad, a refreshing dish that perfectly balances crisp cucumbers, zesty lime, and spicy chilies. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for summer gatherings or as a light meal. With its bright colors and bold taste, it’s sure to impress your family and friends while elevating any barbecue or picnic.
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (or mint for a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse cucumbers under cold water and slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chopped chili peppers. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and cilantro. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat.
- Let the salad marinate for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro and chili slices if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
