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Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe

4.9 from 93 reviews

This vibrant Thai Cucumber Salad offers a refreshing blend of crisp cucumbers, tangy lime dressing, and crunchy peanuts, perfectly balanced with garlic, Sambal, and fresh herbs. A quick and easy salad perfect for summer or as a flavorful side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 pound English cucumbers
  • 1/3 cup red onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Dressing

  • 1 clove garlic, grated
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Sambal (chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon monk fruit sweetener (or preferred sweetener)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cucumbers: Wash, dry, and slice the cucumbers on a bias to create attractive angled slices. Optionally, peel some of the skin to enhance texture.
  2. Make Dressing: In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, grated garlic, fresh lime juice, Sambal, salt, sesame oil, and monk fruit sweetener. Whisk together until well blended to create a tangy and spicy dressing.
  3. Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, chopped peanuts, sliced red onions, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients.
  4. Toss and Marinate: Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the cucumbers and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Substitute zucchini for cucumbers in a pinch, though texture and flavor will vary.
  • Use any preferred nuts instead of peanuts, such as cashews, for allergen considerations.
  • Adjust Sambal quantity to your spice tolerance as it has a notable kick.
  • The salad pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, potstickers, or Asian noodles.
  • For sweetness, alternatives like liquid Pyure or other keto-friendly sweeteners can be used.
  • Make ahead to enhance flavor; can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: Thai cucumber salad, cucumber salad, Thai salad, keto salad, low carb salad, refreshing salad, summer salad, peanut salad, spicy cucumber salad