Spicy Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe
This Spicy Cucumber Edamame Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful dish combining thinly sliced cucumbers, protein-packed edamame, and a zesty dressing with a spicy chili kick. Perfect as a light side or a healthy snack, this salad offers bright, fresh, and savory notes with a delightful balance of textures and heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (to cook or reheat edamame if needed)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3 to 4 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup cooked and shelled edamame
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 scallions, ends removed and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
Dressing
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon spicy chili crisp
Garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Cut off both ends of the cucumber and discard them. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the cucumber into even slices for a crisp texture.
- Salt and Drain Cucumbers: Place the cucumber slices in a mesh strainer and sprinkle lightly with salt. Set the strainer over a bowl to catch excess moisture and let the cucumbers drain for about 10 minutes to release water. After 10 minutes, rinse the cucumbers lightly to remove excess salt and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Prepare Other Ingredients: While the cucumbers drain, dice the scallions, chop the cilantro, and press or mince the garlic cloves. If using frozen edamame, warm it according to the package instructions until heated through.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumbers, cooked edamame, scallions, cilantro, and garlic. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Drizzle the rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, and spicy chili crisp over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the spicy, tangy dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added nutty flavor and crunch. Serve immediately or chilled for a refreshing salad experience. Enjoy!
Notes
- Salting and draining the cucumber slices helps prevent a watery salad and keeps it crisp.
- Adjust the amount of spicy chili crisp to control the heat level according to your taste.
- This salad can be prepared in advance; store covered in the refrigerator and add sesame seeds just before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari.
- Using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the flavor and texture of the salad.
Keywords: Cucumber salad, edamame salad, spicy salad, Asian salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad
