When it comes to light and refreshing culinary delights, Vietnamese cuisine often takes center stage. One standout dish that embodies these qualities is the Vietnamese Cucumber Salad. This salad is not only simple to prepare but also offers a burst of flavors with every bite. Perfect for a summer day or as a side dish to complement a hearty meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients
To whip up a delectable Vietnamese Cucumber Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious Vietnamese Cucumber Salad:
1. Preparing the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into thin, even pieces. If desired, you can peel the cucumbers before slicing, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
2. Slicing the Onion and Chili:
Thinly slice the red onion and, if you prefer a bit of heat, the red chili. Set these aside along with the sliced cucumbers.
3. Herbs and Garnishes:
Finely chop the fresh cilantro and mint leaves. The combination of these herbs gives the salad a refreshing aroma and added flavor complexity. If using, crush the roasted peanuts to sprinkle on top of the salad for a satisfying crunch.
4. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, rice vinegar, fish sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil. Ensure the sugar is completely dissolved to form a smooth and tangy dressing.
5. Combining and Tossing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, chili, cilantro, and mint. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to combine, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Adjust seasoning with additional lime juice or fish sauce if needed.
6. Serving:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle the crushed roasted peanuts over the top, if using. It’s best to serve the salad immediately to maintain its crispness, but it can also be refrigerated for an hour to let the flavors meld together more intensely.
Conclusion
This Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is not only a breeze to prepare but also a nutritious and delightful addition to any meal. The blend of crunchy cucumbers, zesty herbs, and tangy dressing creates a harmonious balance of flavors that tantalize the palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a refreshing starter, this salad is the perfect choice. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Vietnam right in your own kitchen!
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