Vietnamese Cucumber Salad Recipe

Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines the crisp texture of cucumbers with the aromatic flavors of fresh mint and cilantro. The salad is elevated by a subtle kick from finely sliced chili and the crunch of toasted peanuts.

Ingredients Needed For Vietnamese Cucumber Salad for 4 Persons

Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is a delightful dish that brings a refreshing crunch to your meals. The ingredients are simple but come together to create an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Vietnamese Cucumber Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• Cucumbers: Perfect for using up extra cucumbers at home. You’ll need about 450 grams (approximately 5 small Persian cucumbers) for this recipe.
• Scallions: Use 2 finely chopped scallions or green onions to add a subtle sharpness.
• Herbs: Fresh mint and cilantro are essential for a burst of freshness in this salad. About 10 grams of each herb should be sufficient.
• Chili: For a hint of heat, finely slice 1 small green chili or jalapeño (about 10 grams).
• Toasted Peanuts: 30 grams of toasted peanuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

For the Dressing

• Vegan Fish Sauce: A key element in Vietnamese cuisine, 30 ml of vegan fish sauce adds a rich umami depth to the salad.
• Seasonings: Use 10 grams of sugar, a pinch of salt (about 2 grams), and a pinch of pepper (1 gram) for basic seasoning.
• Sesame Oil: 15 ml of sesame oil imparts a subtle nutty flavor to the salad.
• Garlic: 1 clove of garlic (about 5 grams), finely minced, adds a fragrant touch.
• Rice Vinegar: 30 ml of rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) adds acidity and balance to the flavors.

Variations

1. Sauce Options: If you’re not following a vegan diet, regular fish sauce can be used instead of the vegan version. Alternatively, light soy sauce is a great substitute.
2. Nuts and Seeds: Feel free to swap peanuts with other toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, or walnuts for added texture.
3. Protein Addition: To make this salad a more filling main course, you can add your preferred protein source, such as tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
4. Alternative Vegetables: Add variety by incorporating other crunchy vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or radishes.

Step 1: Prepare The Cucumbers

Prepare the Cucumbers is crucial to ensure your salad has the perfect texture and flavor.

Slice The Cucumbers

Start by selecting fresh, firm cucumbers. Wash them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.

Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut off the ends of the cucumbers to remove the bitter parts. Next, decide on the slicing style. For a traditional look, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.

Here’s a quick guide to slicing:

Style	Description
Thin Rounds	Cut the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices.
Matchsticks	Cut the cucumber lengthwise, then into thin strips.
Half-Moons	Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut into thin slices.

Remove excess moisture by placing the slices on a paper towel. Lightly sprinkle salt over them and let them sit for 10 minutes. Pat them dry again to ensure they are crisp and ready for the salad.

Important tips to remember:

• Use a mandoline for even slices.
• Be cautious with the salt; too much can make the cucumbers soggy.
• Keep the slices consistent for even flavor distribution.

With the cucumbers perfectly sliced, your salad will have the ideal crunch. Proceed to the next steps to complete your delicious Vietnamese Cucumber Salad.

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Step 2: Chop The Scallions And Herbs

Step 2 in this recipe is crucial as it involves chopping the scallions and herbs. These ingredients add a burst of aroma and taste, making your salad irresistible.

Finely Chop The Scallions

Scallions, also known as green onions, are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, offering a mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch. To finely chop scallions, follow these steps:

1. Wash the Scallions: Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. Trim the Scallions: Cut off the roots and discard any tough, dark green parts.
3. Lay Flat on the Cutting Board: Place the scallions flat on a cutting board.
4. Slice Thinly into Rings: Using a sharp knife, slice the scallions into thin rings.

Even cuts will ensure a consistent texture throughout the salad. Here’s a quick summary:

Step	Action
1	Wash scallions
2	Trim roots and tough parts
3	Lay flat on cutting board
4	Slice thinly into rings

Remember, evenly chopped scallions ensure each bite of your salad is balanced in flavor.

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Prepare The Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil are essential for an authentic Vietnamese Cucumber Salad. They bring vibrant flavors and a fresh aroma to the dish. Follow these steps to prepare them:

1. Wash the Herbs: Gently wash the herbs in cold water to remove any grit.
2. Dry the Herbs: Use a salad spinner or pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Remove Leaves from Stems: For cilantro, you can also use the tender stems; for mint and basil, use only the leaves.
4. Chop Finely: Stack the leaves of each herb, roll them into a tight bundle, and chop finely with a sharp knife using a rocking motion.

Using fresh herbs enhances the salad’s flavor profile. Here’s a quick summary:

Herb	Preparation Step
Cilantro	Use tender stems and leaves, chop finely.
Mint	Use only the leaves, chop finely.
Basil	Use only the leaves, chop finely.

These finely chopped herbs will blend seamlessly into your salad, creating a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.

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Step 3: Slice The Chili

One crucial step in this recipe is slicing the chili. This step adds a burst of flavor and a hint of spiciness to the salad. Let’s dive into how to slice the chili properly.

Slice The Chili Or Jalapeño

Chili or jalapeño slices add a unique kick to your Vietnamese Cucumber Salad. Start by selecting 1 small green chili or jalapeño that is fresh and firm. Wash it thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.

Follow these steps for perfect chili slices:

• Wear gloves to protect your hands from the chili’s heat.
• Cut off the stem of the chili or jalapeño using a sharp knife.
• Slice the chili lengthwise and remove the seeds if you prefer a milder taste. Leave the seeds if you like it spicy.
• Slice the chili into thin rings. Aim for uniform slices for even flavor distribution.

Here’s a quick comparison table for different slicing options:

Type	Spiciness Level	Preparation Tips
Chili	High	Remove seeds for less heat
Jalapeño	Medium	Keep seeds for extra spice

Important tips to remember while slicing:

1. Always use a sharp knife to ensure clean, precise cuts.
2. Handle the chili carefully to avoid getting the juice on your skin or eyes.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the chili.

Adding chili slices to your Vietnamese Cucumber Salad will elevate the dish. The spicy kick complements the fresh, crisp cucumbers perfectly.

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Step 4: Toast The Peanuts

Toasting peanuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Let’s dive into this step to elevate your salad to the next level.

Toast The Peanuts

Toasting the peanuts is simple but vital for adding depth to your Vietnamese Cucumber Salad. Follow these steps:

1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Peanuts: Place 30 grams of raw, unsalted peanuts in the skillet in a single layer.
3. Toast the Peanuts: Stir them occasionally to ensure they toast evenly. Continue toasting until they are golden and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Cool and Chop: Remove the peanuts from the skillet and let them cool. Once cooled, roughly chop them for added texture in the salad.

Toasted peanuts add a nutty aroma and crunch to your Vietnamese Cucumber Salad. This step is quick but makes a big difference in the final dish. Here is a comparison of the different stages of toasting:

Stage	Color	Time (Minutes)	Action
Raw	Light Beige	0	Start Toasting
Lightly Toasted	Light Golden	3-4	Keep Stirring
Perfectly Toasted	Golden Brown	3-5	Remove from Heat
Over Toasted	Dark Brown	7+	Discard Burnt Peanuts

Remember, perfectly toasted peanuts should have a golden brown color. Avoid burning them as burnt peanuts taste bitter. Once cool, you can crush them lightly or leave them whole. Both ways add a delightful texture to your salad. Enjoy this step, and watch your salad come alive!

Step 5: Prepare The Dressing

In Step 5, we will prepare a dressing that elevates the salad to new heights. This dressing combines sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements that complement the crisp cucumbers perfectly.

Mix The Dressing Ingredients

To create the perfect dressing, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegan fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small green chili or jalapeño, finely sliced

Step by Step Instruction For Cooking The Dressing

1. Add the Vegan Fish Sauce: Start by pouring 2 tablespoons of vegan fish sauce into a small bowl. This provides a savory base that is essential for the dressing.
2. Pour in the Rice Vinegar: Add 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. This ingredient adds a mild tanginess that balances the flavors.
3. Add Sesame Oil: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This adds a nutty aroma and depth to the dressing.
4. Stir in the Sugar: Mix in 1 tablespoon of sugar. The sugar balances the sourness of the vinegar and enhances the overall flavor.
5. Add Minced Garlic: Mince 1 clove of garlic and mix it into the dressing. Garlic contributes a pungent, aromatic depth.
6. Incorporate the Chili: Finely slice 1 small green chili or jalapeño and add it to the bowl. This will give the dressing a characteristic spicy edge.

Whisk all the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves completely, ensuring that every bite of your cucumber salad is evenly coated with the delicious dressing.

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Step 6: Combine The Salad

This step is crucial for ensuring the salad tastes fresh and delicious. Let’s dive into how to do it perfectly.

Toss The Vegetables And Dressing Together

Now, it’s time to toss the vegetables and dressing together. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor. First, place your sliced cucumbers, carrots, and radishes in a large mixing bowl. These veggies should be crisp and fresh.

Follow these steps to combine everything:

1. Pour the Prepared Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the veggies.
2. Toss Gently: Use salad tongs to gently toss everything together, ensuring the dressing coats each piece evenly.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro and mint for extra freshness.
4. Add Crunch: If you prefer some crunch, top the salad with the toasted peanuts.

Make sure to toss gently to avoid bruising the vegetables. The goal is to mix well without making the salad soggy. For a bit of extra texture, consider adding roasted peanuts or crispy shallots on top.

Quick Tip: If you want the salad to be less watery, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes. Then, rinse and pat them dry before mixing.

For a Visually Appealing Salad:

Consider arranging the salad in layers:

Layer	Ingredient
1	Sliced cucumbers
2	Shredded carrots (optional)
3	Sliced radishes (optional)
4	Chopped herbs
5	Roasted peanuts

Combining the ingredients this way makes your salad look as good as it tastes. Enjoy your Vietnamese Cucumber Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!

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Nutritional Benefits Vietnamese Cucumber Salad

Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is not only a burst of refreshing flavors but also packed with numerous health benefits. This delightful dish is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that support your overall well-being. Let’s explore the nutritional benefits of this simple yet nutritious salad.

Vitamins And Minerals

Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers, the main ingredient, offer a variety of nutrients that are vital for your health.

• Vitamin K: Supports bone health and aids in blood clotting.
• Vitamin C: Boosts your immune system and helps in collagen production.
• Potassium: Maintains healthy blood pressure levels.
• Magnesium: Important for muscle and nerve function.

Additional ingredients like carrots and herbs add even more nutrients:

• Carrots: High in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, improving vision.
• Mint and Cilantro: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

These nutrients make the Vietnamese Cucumber Salad a smart choice for enhancing your daily nutrient intake.

Low-calorie Options

The Vietnamese Cucumber Salad is a fantastic low-calorie option for those watching their calorie intake. Cucumbers are primarily made up of water, making them very low in calories.

Here is a breakdown of the calorie content for common ingredients:

Ingredient	Calories (per 100g)
Cucumbers	16
Carrots	41
Mint	70
Cilantro	23

Even the dressing, typically made with lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar, keeps the calorie count low while adding a tangy flavor. This makes the salad a perfect light meal or a side dish for those aiming to maintain or lose weight.

Hydration Boost

Eating Vietnamese Cucumber Salad can give you a significant hydration boost. Cucumbers consist of about 95% water, which helps keep you hydrated, especially on hot days.

Benefits of staying hydrated:

1. Improves skin health: Hydrated skin looks more vibrant and less prone to wrinkles.
2. Aids digestion: Water helps in the digestion process and prevents constipation.
3. Boosts energy levels: Proper hydration can enhance your overall energy and reduce fatigue.

Combining cucumbers with other hydrating vegetables like carrots and herbs makes this salad an excellent choice for maintaining your water intake. The natural water content helps you stay refreshed and energized throughout the day.