Thai Cucumber Salad
User Reviews
5
Thai Cucumber Salad
Description
Thai Cucumber Salad combines peeled, thinly sliced cucumbers with thin red onion slices for a crisp base. The cucumbers are salted and drained briefly to reduce excess water and concentrate flavor. A dressing of rice vinegar and sugar, warmed slightly to dissolve the sugar, is poured over the cucumber and onion, imparting a sweet and tart profile. Fresh cilantro adds herbal brightness, while chopped peanuts contribute texture and a nutty taste. The salad marinates in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the cucumbers to remain crisp.
This salad is well-suited as a refreshing side to heavier or spiced dishes, offering a cool contrast and crunchy texture. It can be served chilled and garnished with peanuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.
For best results, small Persian cucumbers are preferred due to their firm texture and small size, but English cucumbers quartered and sliced can be used as an alternative. Some cooks create shallow grooves in the cucumber skin to help the dressing penetrate the flesh, which is optional.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cucumber I prefer the small persian cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, fresh
- 1/3 cup peanut chopped
Instructions
- Place the cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle the salt over them.
- Toss to coat the cucumber slices in salt. Let sit 10 minutes.
- Use a paper towel to blot the cucumber slices dry.
- Place the rice vinegar and sugar in a small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Place the cucumbers and red onion in a large bowl, then pour the rice vinegar mixture over the top.
- Add the cilantro to the cucumber mixture and stir until combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
- Sprinkle the peanuts over the top, then serve.
Notes
- Small Persian cucumbers provide optimal texture and flavor, but English cucumbers can be quartered and sliced as a substitute.
- Creating shallow grooves in cucumbers with a lemon zester is optional and helps dressing absorb better.
- Refrigerate the salad for up to 24 hours; add peanuts just before serving to retain crunch.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 143 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 143kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 891mg | 37% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 12g | 24% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.