This Juicy Thai Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and tangy dish featuring thinly sliced English cucumbers tossed in a sweet and tangy rice vinegar dressing, enhanced with crunchy peanuts, fresh cilantro, and red onion. Perfect as a light side or appetizer, it offers vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
Salad
1 lb cucumbers (peeled and thinly sliced, preferably English cucumbers for fewer seeds)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1/3 cup chopped peanuts
Dressing
1/2 cup rice vinegar (unseasoned rice vinegar works best for controlling flavor)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp salt (Diamond Crystal kosher salt is recommended)
Instructions
Salt and Drain the Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle 2 teaspoons of salt over them, and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then blot dry with a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
Prepare the Rice Vinegar Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup rice vinegar and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating the sweet and tangy dressing.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the drained cucumber slices and thinly sliced red onion. Pour the rice vinegar mixture over them, add the chopped cilantro, and stir until well combined.
Refrigerate and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. It can marinate up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for a crunchy finish.
Notes
Using English cucumbers reduces seeds and bitterness for a crisper salad.
Adjust sugar amount in the dressing according to taste preference for sweetness.
For added heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar if unavailable, but flavor will vary slightly.
Peanuts add texture; for a nut-free version, substitute with toasted sunflower seeds or omit altogether.
