Cucumber Edamame Salad

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side dish for dinner, this salad shines. The crisp cucumbers combined with the protein-packed edamame create a delightful texture, while the zesty dressing brings everything together. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cucumbers and herbs ensures bold flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, serve it at picnics, or enjoy it as a light lunch.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with vitamins and protein from edamame, it’s a healthy addition to any meal.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cucumber Edamame Salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when dicing vegetables, enhancing presentation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements create balanced flavors in your salad dressing.

Ingredients

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is fresh, flavorful and so delicious!

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 (if using chili paste you might want to use less)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Cucumber Edamame Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing up the cucumber. I like to dice mine into small, bite-size pieces so that they are similar in size to the edamame. Add the diced cucumber to a large bowl. Next, add the edamame, green onion, and cilantro.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients:
1. Add neutral flavored oil.
2. Pour in rice apple vinegar.
3. Mix in tamari or soy sauce.
4. Stir in toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, chili onion crunch (or chili paste), minced garlic, and grated ginger.
5. Whisk until combined; taste and adjust ingredient amounts as needed.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated. If desired, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Cucumber Edamame Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a refreshing side or a light main course, here are some ideas for serving it up.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair with Asian-inspired entrees like teriyaki tofu or stir-fried vegetables to enhance flavors.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with Cucumber Edamame Salad for a healthy lunch option.
• Add slices of avocado or protein like shredded chicken for a heartier meal.

On Top of Greens

• Place the salad over a bed of mixed greens for additional texture and nutrition.
• Drizzle with extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

As a Snack

• Enjoy it as a quick snack on its own, perfect for mid-afternoon cravings.
• Serve with whole grain crackers for added crunch and fiber.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare the salad in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Pack it in lunch boxes as a nutritious option throughout the week.

How to Perfect Cucumber Edamame Salad

To make your Cucumber Edamame Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use crisp cucumbers and vibrant herbs for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your preference; add more maple syrup for sweetness or more tamari for saltiness.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
• Add crunch: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts just before serving for an extra crunch factor.
• Experiment with herbs: Try substituting cilantro with fresh mint or basil for different flavor profiles.
• Make it colorful: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or radishes for more color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Edamame Salad

If you’re looking to round out your meal featuring Cucumber Edamame Salad, here are some great side dishes that complement its fresh flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp marinated in garlic and herbs make a perfect protein pairing.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper offer a light crunchy companion.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup balances the coolness of the salad and adds umami depth.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with sesame oil enhances the Asian theme of the meal.
6. Brown Rice Sushi Rolls: Sushi rolls filled with avocado and cucumber harmonize well with the salad’s ingredients.
7. Edamame Hummus: This creamy dip made from edamame brings an added layer of flavor and nutrition.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide an excellent contrast to the fresh salad while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cucumber Edamame Salad, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious end result.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Pick English cucumbers for their mild flavor. Avoid waxed varieties as they can alter the taste and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with a little and add more if needed after mixing.
• Neglecting to taste: Always sample your salad before serving. Adjust seasoning and dressing to enhance flavors based on your preference.
• Ignoring ingredient size: Dice cucumbers and other ingredients uniformly for better texture and visual appeal. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds brightness to the salad. Don’t substitute with dried herbs, as they lack the same vibrancy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Not recommended: The texture of cucumbers changes when frozen, making them watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Oven: Not suitable for reheating; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave; it affects texture and flavor.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; enjoy straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to Cucumber Edamame Salad that may help you prepare this dish perfectly.

How can I customize my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

You can add ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, or avocado for extra crunch and flavor. Experiment with different dressings too!

Can I make Cucumber Edamame Salad in advance?

Yes! Prepare it a day ahead, but store the dressing separately. Mix just before serving for maximum freshness.

Is Cucumber Edamame Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with protein from edamame and hydrating cucumbers, making it a nutritious choice.

What can I serve with my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent side dish for any meal.

Can I use frozen edamame?

Yes! Just ensure it’s thawed completely before adding it to your salad for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only fresh and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try today!