Description
Discover the incredible simplicity and vibrant flavors of this Healthy Thai Cucumber Salad, a refreshing, zesty, and utterly satisfying side dish or light meal perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with bright, tangy flavors and wholesome, fresh ingredients, this easy Thai cucumber salad delivers on both taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
2 large English cucumber
1/2 Red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup Roasted peanuts, chopped
3 tbsp Fresh lime juice
2 tbsp Fish sauce
1 tbsp Brown sugar (or maple syrup)
1 tbsp Rice vinegar
1/2 tsp Red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Slice your cucumbers very thinly. You can use a mandoline for uniform slices. Place them in a large bowl
- Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red chili flakes (if using). This forms the dressing for your Thai cucumber salad
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and red onion. Toss gently to coat everything thoroughly
- Finally, stir in the fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts. Serve your Healthy Thai Cucumber Salad immediately or chill it for a short time
Notes
Always use fresh, crisp English cucumbers and slice your vegetables thinly for optimal texture.
To prevent the salad from becoming watery, you can salt the cucumbers for 15 minutes, then pat them dry before dressing.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, though leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating is not recommended; serve it chilled.
For a vegetarian version, omit fish sauce and use soy sauce or tamari instead. If you dislike peanuts, try cashews or sunflower seeds. Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra veggies. A dash of sesame oil can add nutty depth.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thai cucumber salad, healthy, quick, easy, refreshing, side dish, light meal, gluten-free, vegetarian option