Thai Cucumber Salad with Peanuts

Name: Thai Cucumber Salad with Peanuts
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Chili flakes to taste

Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking

I absolutely adore this Thai Cucumber Salad with Peanuts! The crisp, refreshing cucumbers combined with the crunch of roasted peanuts create a delightful balance of textures. It's the perfect side dish for summer barbecues or a light lunch that transports me straight to Thailand with every bite. I love how the tangy dressing balances the flavors and elevates the salad. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, this salad is a vibrant addition to any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:13:27.792Z

Making this Thai Cucumber Salad was a revelation for me! I experimented with the dressing by mixing lime juice, soy sauce, and a hint of sugar, balancing the acidity with sweetness to create a flavor that perfectly complements the cucumbers. This method keeps the salad refreshing yet rich in flavor, and I found it works best if you allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. I often add leftover grilled chicken or tofu to make it a complete meal. The crunchy peanuts really elevate the dish, adding a satisfying texture that keeps me coming back for more. It's quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp cucumbers paired with a tangy dressing that brightens any meal
Crunchy peanuts adding a delightful texture and nutty flavor
Quick prep makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings

The Role of Key Ingredients

Cucumbers are the star of this salad, providing a crisp bite that forms the foundation of the dish. Choosing a fresh, firm cucumber ensures the salad maintains a satisfying crunch. For added texture, you can experiment with different cucumber varieties, such as English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor, making them a delightful choice for this salad.

The dressing strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet. Lime juice adds acidity and brightness, while sugar contrasts that tanginess, creating a refreshing flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste; a little more may enhance the overall flavor, especially if your cucumbers are on the bitter side. Add soy sauce for depth, but be cautious with the salt level, especially if you’re using salted peanuts.

Preparation and Technique Tips

When slicing cucumbers, aim for uniform thickness to ensure they marinate evenly in the dressing. A mandoline slicer can help achieve perfect slices quickly. For added flavor, consider salting the cucumbers for about 10–15 minutes before mixing them into the salad. This not only draws out excess moisture but also intensifies their taste, making every bite more vibrant.

Chopping the peanuts just before serving helps retain their crunch. If you prefer less crunch or have nut allergies, sunflower seeds may serve as a suitable substitute without compromising too much on flavor. To further explore variations, consider adding ingredients like bell peppers or carrots for a pop of color and additional nutrition.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Thai Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables separately. Combine them just before serving for the best texture. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad can last for up to two days. However, watch for excess moisture from the cucumbers, which could make the salad wilt.

Serving this salad in a chilled bowl enhances its refreshing qualities. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal. For a more complete dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or shredded chicken to the salad for added protein and heartiness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Thai Cucumber Salad.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Chili flakes to taste

Mix everything well to ensure the flavors are well-distributed throughout the salad.

Instructions

This salad comes together in just a few simple steps.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.

Combine Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro.

Add Dressing and Peanuts

Pour the dressing over the vegetables, then sprinkle with chopped peanuts and chili flakes. Toss everything to combine well.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled.

Enjoy your fresh and zesty Thai Cucumber Salad!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add sliced red chilies or a dash of Sriracha to the dressing.

Flavor Variations

To introduce an interesting twist, you might add fruits like mango or pineapple, which complement the salad’s flavor with their natural sweetness. Just remember to cut these fruits into small, manageable pieces to maintain the overall texture. The acidity from lime juice also pairs beautifully with sweet elements, enhancing the salad's complexity.

If you're a fan of heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of chili paste to the dressing can elevate the dish. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance, but a little kick can bring out the flavors in the dressing and balance the sweetness of the cucumbers.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find that your dressing is too sour, try incorporating a touch more sugar or honey to achieve a desirable balance. Tasting as you adjust is crucial. If the cucumbers seem watery after mixing, consider using a slotted spoon to serve, allowing excess liquid to drain without sacrificing flavor.

On the other hand, if the salad lacks flavor, it may be due to insufficient seasoning in the dressing. A splash more soy sauce or a sprinkle of salt can make a big difference, and don't shy away from adjusting the chili flakes if more spice is desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, but it's best to add the peanuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped tomatoes for added color and flavor.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.

→ How do I make it vegetarian or vegan?

This salad is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using a vegan soy sauce.