Cucumber Edamame Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious side dish, this Cucumber Edamame Salad is just the ticket! It’s bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor, making it one of my favorite go-to recipes for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and protein-packed edamame offers both texture and nourishment, making this salad a wonderful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for when you want something delicious but don’t have much time!

This salad is not only delightful in taste but also versatile enough to fit into various occasions—from picnics to potlucks. You can even make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make this Cucumber Edamame Salad again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days.
• Family-friendly: With its fresh ingredients and appealing crunch, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance for those hectic evenings or meal prep sessions!
• Deliciously healthy: Packed with nutrients and plant-based protein, it’s a wholesome addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You might already have some of them in your kitchen!

For the Salad

• 2 English cucumbers, small diced
• 1 (12 oz) package shelled edamame, thawed overnight
• 1 cup chopped green onion
• 1 handful chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup neutral flavored oil, I used expeller pressed safflower 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 (use less if using chili paste)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more crunch: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or radishes for an extra layer of texture.
• Switch up the herbs: If cilantro isn’t your thing, parsley or basil can bring a fresh twist.
• Make it spicier: Add more chili onion crunch or diced jalapeño for a kick!
• Include more protein: Toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.

How to Make Cucumber Edamame Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing up the cucumbers into small, bite-sized pieces. I like my cucumbers similar in size to the edamame so that each bite is full of flavor and texture. Once diced, add them to a large bowl along with the edamame, green onion, and cilantro. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: neutral flavored oil, rice apple vinegar, tamari (or soy sauce), toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, chili onion crunch (or chili paste), minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt. Mix everything until well combined and give it a taste! Adjust any ingredient amounts as needed—this is your chance to customize the flavor exactly how you like it.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all components are coated in that delicious dressing. If you’re feeling fancy, top with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch! And there you have it—a vibrant Cucumber Edamame Salad ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cucumber Edamame Salad

Creating a delicious Cucumber Edamame Salad is a breeze, but a few tips can take it from good to exceptional!

• Choose the freshest ingredients – Fresh cucumbers and vibrant cilantro will enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Adjust the spice level – Depending on your preference, you can modify the amount of chili onion crunch or chili paste. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the salad at their own heat level.
• Let it marinate – If time allows, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Mix in protein – For an extra protein boost, consider adding some cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu. It turns this side dish into a hearty main course.
• Experiment with herbs – While cilantro is great, you can also try mint or basil for a different twist. These herbs add unique flavor profiles that can refresh your palate.

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

Serving Cucumber Edamame Salad is not just about how it tastes; it’s also about how it looks! With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this salad can be a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Toasted sesame seeds – A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Sliced radishes – Thinly sliced radishes bring a pop of color and an extra layer of crispness to your salad.
• Lime wedges – Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portion, enhancing the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers – Colorful skewers of marinated zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are perfect for grilling alongside this salad, adding smoky flavors to your meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and lemon provides a nice contrast in texture while being nutritious and filling.
• Asian-Inspired Stir-Fried Noodles – Quick stir-fried noodles tossed with colorful veggies create an easy-to-make side that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing salad.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Cucumber Edamame Salad will not only taste amazing but will also impress everyone at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only fresh and delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance to save time during busy weekdays or to enjoy as a healthy snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Item: The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Item: Give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

Freezing

• Item: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended.
• Item: If you want to keep some of the components for later, consider freezing edamame separately.

Reheating

• Item: There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be enjoyed cold!
• Item: Simply take it out of the fridge, give it a mix, and it’s ready to serve.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing your Cucumber Edamame Salad.

Can I make Cucumber Edamame Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is ideal for meal prep. Just prepare it a few hours in advance or even the day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What ingredients can I add to Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Feel free to get creative! You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind.

How long does Cucumber Edamame Salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your Cucumber Edamame Salad will stay fresh for about 3 days.

Is Cucumber Edamame Salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! This refreshing salad is entirely plant-based and contains no animal-derived products, making it a great choice for vegans.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this vibrant Cucumber Edamame Salad as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrition and flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or looking for a tasty side dish for your next gathering, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!