thai restaurant cucumber salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best thai restaurant cucumber salad recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the simplicity and elegance of Thai restaurant cucumber salad recipe. This refreshing dish is a staple in many Thai restaurants, and for good reason – it’s light, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. I first encountered this recipe at a local Thai restaurant in my hometown, where it was served as a side dish to complement the rich flavors of their curries.

The combination of crunchy cucumbers, sweet onions, and tangy lime juice was a revelation – it was like a taste of sunshine in a bowl. As I watched the chef expertly chop the cucumbers and mix in the dressing, I knew I had to recreate this recipe at home. Over time, I’ve tweaked the ingredients and techniques to suit my family’s tastes, and now this salad is a regular feature at our dinner table.

My kids adore it because it’s easy to eat and fun to customize with their favorite toppings – they love adding sliced carrots or chopped peanuts for extra crunch. For me, it’s a perfect way to add some variety to our meal routine while still keeping things simple and healthy. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make – just chop up some cucumbers, mix in your favorite dressing, and serve over rice or noodles. My family loves this salad so much that we often have leftovers for lunch the next day – it’s a great way to use up any remaining cucumbers from our garden or farmer’s market hauls. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit any occasion or dietary need.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a healthy snack, this Thai cucumber salad recipe is sure to become a staple in your household like it has in mine.

Thai Restaurant Cucumber Salad

4.8 from 964 votes

A refreshing and crisp Thai-inspired cucumber salad with a tangy lime dressing and a hint of spice. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 large cucumbers
1 small red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup roasted peanuts

For the Dressing

1/4 cup lime juice
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp palm sugar
1-2 Thai chilies, finely chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1First, wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
2Peel the cucumbers if desired, then cut them in half lengthwise.
3Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds to remove excess water and reduce bitterness.
4Slice the cucumbers into thin half-moons and place them in a mixing bowl.
5Next, peel and finely chop the red onion.
6Add the chopped red onion to the bowl with the cucumbers.
7Chop the cilantro and mint leaves finely and add them to the bowl.
8Sprinkle the roasted peanuts over the top.
9To make the dressing, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
10Add the finely chopped Thai chilies to the dressing.
11Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice, fish sauce, or sugar to your preference.
12Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture.
13Using tongs or two spoons, gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
14Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
15Serve the Thai cucumber salad immediately, while it is still crisp and refreshing.
16Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and mint leaves if desired.
17Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal.

🔧Equipment

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier salad, add more Thai chilies to the dressing. To make this salad vegan, substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.

Watch Video Of How Thai Restaurant Cucumber Salad Works

This Thai cucumber salad recipe is one of my go-to options when I need something light and refreshing for my family. It’s incredibly easy to make – just chop up some cucumbers, mix in your favorite dressing, and serve over rice or noodles.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like vitamin K from the cucumbers and antioxidants from the lime juice. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household like it has in mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Restaurant Cucumber Salad

Q: What type of cucumbers are best for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use English or hothouse cucumbers – they’re typically longer and thinner than regular cucumbers, with a milder flavor that pairs perfectly with the dressing.

Q: Can I use other types of vinegar instead of fish sauce?

A: While fish sauce gives this salad its signature umami flavor, you can substitute other types of vinegar like soy sauce or oyster sauce if you prefer. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftover salad?

A: Leftover salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours – just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Q: Can I add protein like chicken or tofu to this salad?

A: Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile – just add your favorite protein source and toss everything together for a quick and easy meal.

Q: Why does this recipe call for rice vinegar instead of regular vinegar?

A: Rice vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cucumbers and dressing – regular vinegar would give the dish an overpowering acidity.

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