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Juicy Thai Cucumber Salad Recipe

4.5 from 173 reviews

This Juicy Thai Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a sweet and tangy rice vinegar dressing, garnished with fresh cilantro and crunchy peanuts. Perfect as a light side or a cooling snack, this salad combines crisp textures with bold flavors inspired by Thai cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 lb cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced (preferably English cucumbers)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion
  • 1/3 cup chopped peanuts

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp salt (preferably Diamond Crystal kosher salt)

Instructions

  1. Salt and Drain the Cucumbers: Place the thinly sliced cucumbers in a colander, then sprinkle them evenly with 2 teaspoons of salt. Toss to coat all slices, then allow to sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Afterward, blot the cucumber slices dry using a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
  2. Prepare the Rice Vinegar Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup rice vinegar and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds, then stir thoroughly until the sugar has fully dissolved, creating a sweet and tangy dressing base.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained cucumber slices along with 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion. Pour the prepared rice vinegar and sugar dressing over the vegetables. Add 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, then stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
  4. Refrigerate and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld. For a stronger flavor, let it marinate for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, sprinkle a handful of chopped peanuts over the top to add a crunchy texture. Serve fresh and enjoy the refreshing flavors of this Thai-inspired cucumber salad.

Notes

  • Using English cucumbers is preferred as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making the salad less watery and more tender.
  • Be sure to blot the cucumbers dry after salting to keep the salad crisp and prevent sogginess.
  • The salad can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavor but is best served within that time for optimal freshness.
  • For a gluten-free option, verify that the rice vinegar is unseasoned and gluten-free.
  • Adjust the sugar quantity if you prefer a less sweet or more tangy dressing based on personal taste.

Keywords: Thai cucumber salad, cucumber salad, Thai salad, fresh cucumber recipe, tangy cucumber salad, crunchy cucumber salad, vegan salad