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Easy Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe

Discover the refreshing flavors of our easy Thai cucumber salad recipe! This vibrant dish combines crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and aromatic herbs for a burst of Thai-inspired goodness. A cool cucumber salad is the perfect summer side dish or light meal for the hot summer months. 

Thai Cucumber Salad

Looking for a light and refreshing salad bursting with vibrant flavors? Try our mouthwatering Thai cucumber salad recipe. 

Made with crisp cucumbers, zesty lime dressing, and a perfect blend of Thai-inspired ingredients, this salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-make and healthy salad option.

Thai food is renowned for its bold and invigorating flavors, and our Thai cucumber salad is no exception. This delicious salad is a wonderful balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy notes that will leave you craving for more.

Whether you’re looking for a great side dish for Thai dishes like chicken satay or a light lunch option with bold flavors, this crunchy Thai cucumber salad is the perfect choice. 

The tangy Thai cucumber salad dressing is the heart of this Thai cucumber salad. The dressing not only adds zing to the cucumbers but also brings the whole salad together.

thai cucumber salad

How to Make This Simple Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe

Be sure to scroll down because I have a printable recipe card for you with full instructions and ingredients. 

Ingredient Checklist 

  • 1/3 cup rice wine vinegar 
  • sugar 
  • sesame oil 
  • red pepper flakes 
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt 
  • cucumbers, peeled and sliced 
  • green onions, diced 
  • chopped peanuts
Thai Cucumber Salad Ingredients

To start, peel and slice your cucumbers long wise. Scoop out of the cucumber seeds and cut into thin slices. Place the cucumber slices in a mixing bowl. You can use mini cucumbers, large cucumbers English cucumbers.

Mix your dressing ingredients together in a small bowl: sesame oil, tangy rice vinegar, sugar, oil, red pepper flakes and salt. The Sesame Oil adds so much flavor, even though you just need a little bit.

Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers. 

Allow the cucumber slices to marinate in the Thai cucumber sauce for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cucumbers time to absorb the delicious dressing.

Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with crushed peanuts or cashews for an added crunch and nutty flavor. It adds a delightful textural contrast to the crisp cucumbers.

Garnish your cucumber mixture with sliced green onions or fresh herbs

Thai cucumber salad is best enjoyed when chilled. Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities.

Thai Cucumber Salad

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Tips For Best Results When Making This Easy Thai Cucumber Salad

  • The key to a fantastic Thai cucumber salad lies in the fresh ingredients and the crunchiness of the cucumbers. Opt for English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, as they have a tender skin and fewer seeds. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or matchsticks for an appealing presentation. 
  • For an aesthetically pleasing presentation, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or matchsticks. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for precise and even cuts.
  • After slicing the cucumbers, sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, making the cucumbers crispier and preventing the salad from becoming watery.
  • To preserve their freshness and vibrant flavors, chop the fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil just before serving. Toss them into the salad for a burst of aromatic goodness.
  • Thai cucumber salad can be mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Adjust the amount of Thai chilies according to your spice tolerance. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more if desired.
Thai Cucumber Salad

Thai Cucumber Salad Variations

You can add the following to your salad recipe:

  • Basil
  • Mint
  • Aromatic Cilantro or other fresh herbs
  • julienned carrots
  • sliced cabbage
  • edamame
  • sliced small red onion or white onion
  • sesame seeds
  • sliced jalapeno peppers, chili pepper, Thai chiles or hot pepper
  • lemon juice or lime juice
  • a few teaspoons of fish sauce or soy sauce

Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe FAQs

Do I Need to Use Rice Vinegar in the Savory Dressing?

While you could substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, I have to recommend you use the rice vinegar in this recipe. You can find it in the International Foods section of your local supermarket. 

How long can I store Thai cucumber salad in the refrigerator?

Thai cucumber salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in airtight containers. However, keep in mind that the cucumbers may release more moisture over time, so the salad may become slightly watery. It’s best to consume it within a day for optimal freshness.

Can I add protein to Thai cucumber salad?

Absolutely! Thai cucumber salad pairs well with grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu. You can add these protein options to make it a more substantial meal or serve it as a refreshing side dish.

Is Thai cucumber salad spicy?

The level of spiciness in Thai cucumber salad can be adjusted to suit your preference. The recipe typically calls for Thai chilies, which can be quite spicy. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of chilies or omit them altogether.

Can I use other vegetables in Thai cucumber salad?

While the traditional Thai cucumber salad focuses on cucumbers, you can experiment with other vegetables. Thinly sliced red bell peppers, carrots, or even mango can be added to create interesting flavor and texture combinations.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English or Persian cucumbers?

While English or Persian cucumbers are recommended for their tender skin and fewer seeds, you can use regular cucumbers if that’s what you have available. Just be sure to peel them and remove the seeds for a better texture.

Thai Cucumber Salad

Thai Cucumber Salad

Yield: 3 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
This Thai Cucumber Salad is light, refreshing and full of flavor made with simple ingredients. This refreshing salad is the perfect side dish.

Ingredients

  • * 1/3 cup rice vinegar
  • * 2 Tbsp sugar
  • * 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • * 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • * 1/2 tsp salt
  • * 2 large cucumbers (peeled and sliced)
  • * 3 green onions (diced)
  • * 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions

To start, peel and slice your cucumbers long wise. Scoop out of the seeds and then slice the cucumbers. Place the cucumbers in a bowl. 

In a small bowl, make your dressing. The Sesame Oil adds so much flavor, even though you just need a little bit. Mix together vinegar, sugar, oil, red pepper flakes and salt.

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers. Garnish with sliced green onions and peanuts.

Toss everything together.

Serve your Thai Cucumber Salad immediately or I personally like to let it refrigerate for a bit.

Notes

Of course, if you find yourself without peanuts, you can opt to leave them out.

Did you make this recipe?

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Alison Shaffer

Wednesday 13th of September 2023

Looks really good! Cucumbers are a nice refreshing food in any salad! Love your blog!!!

Deb

Monday 23rd of May 2022

I didn't use peanuts or green onions and it was delish!

Sue E

Tuesday 19th of October 2021

I think side dishes are just as important as the main meal! This side dish is absolutely good for us and very tasty! YUM 😋

Adriane

Monday 18th of October 2021

That looks so refreshing!! I love cukes

Sheila M.

Monday 18th of October 2021

Looks so refreshing! Can't wait to try it!

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