If you’re on the hunt for a refreshingly crisp, vibrant, and nourishing salad that blends vibrant flavors with a satisfying crunch, look no further than this delightful Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of cool, crisp cucumbers paired with protein-packed edamame, all brought together by a tangy, slightly spicy dressing that dances on your taste buds. This salad is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also bursts with fresh herbs and bold flavors, making it an ideal side or light meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a balanced texture and lively flavor profile: the green freshness, creamy edamame, bright aromatics, and that addictive dressing which ties everything together perfectly.
- 2 English cucumbers, small diced: They offer a refreshing crunch and juiciness that form the backbone of the salad.
- 1 (12 oz) package shelled edamame, thawed: Packed with plant-based protein, edamame adds a creamy bite that contrasts beautifully with the cucumbers.
- 1 cup chopped green onion: These infuse a mild sharpness and pop of color.
- 1 handful chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, citrusy herbal note that lifts the salad’s flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup neutral oil: Provides the base for the dressing without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/4 cup rice apple vinegar: Brings a gentle tang and light acidity that balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce: Introduces umami depth and a touch of saltiness.
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: Adds a warm, nutty aroma that enhances the salad’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup: A hint of natural sweetness to soften the tangy and savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon chili onion crunch or chili paste: Delivers a subtle kick and delightful crunchiness within the dressing.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a punch of savory intensity to brighten flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger: Adds a warm spice that ties the ingredients together.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: A finishing touch for freshness and color.
How to Make Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the cucumbers
Start by dicing the English cucumbers into small, bite-sized pieces. Their crisp texture and cool flavor set the stage for this salad, so try to keep the pieces evenly sized to ensure every forkful is perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Combine the veggies
Next, add the thawed shelled edamame, chopped green onions, and cilantro to a large mixing bowl with the cucumbers. These ingredients create a vibrant, colorful base that’s packed with texture and freshness.
Step 3: Whisk the dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the neutral oil, rice apple vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, chili onion crunch or chili paste, minced garlic, and grated ginger until thoroughly combined. This dressing is the soul of the salad, offering a perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors.
Step 4: Toss the salad
Pour your dressing over the cucumber and edamame mixture. Gently stir until every bit of the salad is evenly coated, making sure the dressing clings to all those fresh ingredients to maximize flavor at every bite.
Step 5: Chill for flavor
For the best flavor, cover and chill the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This step allows the dressing to marry with the veggies and the herbs to release their aromas, delivering a more cohesive and inviting dish.
How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your salad presentation and flavor, sprinkle with a few extra chopped fresh parsley leaves or toasted sesame seeds. These simple touches add an extra pop of color and subtle nuttiness that takes the dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
This Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken, tofu, or fish. It also complements Asian-inspired dishes such as teriyaki bowls or rice noodle stir-fries, bringing a refreshing contrast with its crisp, light qualities.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad inside hollowed-out cucumber boats or small lettuce cups for a playful finger food presentation. Or plate it alongside sushi rolls or cold soba noodles for a colorful and texturally contrasting spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate any settling dressing.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not ideal for freezing. The cucumbers’ high water content will cause them to become mushy and lose their appealing texture once thawed.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for the crisp and refreshing experience that the Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe is known for.
FAQs
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of tamari?
Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce if tamari is unavailable. Just be mindful that soy sauce may contain gluten, whereas tamari is often gluten-free.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well refrigerated for a day or two, making it a fantastic option to prep ahead and enjoy as a healthy side or light lunch.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Of course! Sliced radishes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots would all add delicious color, crunch, and flavor while staying true to the salad’s vibrant profile.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen edamame?
The easiest way is to let the frozen shelled edamame thaw in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker method before draining well.
How spicy is the chili onion crunch?
The heat level varies depending on the brand, but it generally adds a moderate kick and some extra texture. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe is a shining example of how fresh ingredients and a simple dressing can elevate a dish from everyday to extraordinary. It’s quick to make, refreshingly tasty, and versatile enough to accompany a wide range of meals. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll keep coming back for more of its crisp, flavorful goodness!
Print
Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Edamame Salad featuring tender edamame and crisp cucumbers tossed in a flavorful Asian-inspired dressing, perfect as a light side dish or healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 English cucumbers, small diced
- 1 (12 oz) package shelled edamame, thawed
- 1 cup chopped green onion
- 1 handful chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup neutral oil
- 1/4 cup rice apple vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chili onion crunch or chili paste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Dice the cucumbers into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl to form the base of the salad.
- Add Vegetables: Add the thawed edamame, chopped green onion, and fresh cilantro to the cucumber, mixing gently to combine.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together neutral oil, rice apple vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, chili onion crunch, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt until well blended and smooth.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld for best taste before serving.
Notes
- Thaw edamame thoroughly before adding to the salad for optimal texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili paste or chili onion crunch to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be made a few hours ahead of time.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- For added crunch, consider topping with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
