In the realm of vibrant, healthful dishes, few salads capture the essence of fresh, crunchy goodness quite like the Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad. This refreshing Asian delight marries the cool, succulent crispness of cucumber with the nutty, protein-packed bite of edamame, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Infused with delicate hints of ginger, sesame, and a splash of tangy soy, this salad not only invigorates the palate but also brings a burst of nourishing vitality to your table. Perfectly suited for warm days or as a bright complement to any meal, the Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication in every forkful.
Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad offers a delightful blend of crunchy textures and fresh Asian flavors, making it an ideal light meal or side dish year-round. This vibrant salad celebrates the simplicity of fresh ingredients like cooling cucumber and protein-packed edamame, each bringing its own nutritional benefits that nourish the body while tantalizing the palate. From its straightforward preparation to its balanced, tangy dressing, this salad is a perfect example of how wholesome ingredients can be combined to create an irresistible, healthful dish.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes (for blanching edamame)
Yield
4 servings
Difficulty Level
Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen edamame, shelled and thawed
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (preferably English or Persian cucumbers)
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Edamame: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen edamame and blanch for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and plunge into ice water immediately to stop the cooking process and preserve vibrant color.
- Slice the Cucumbers: Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the cucumbers for a crisp bite and elegant presentation. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes until well emulsified. This dressing harmoniously balances savory, tangy, and lightly sweet elements for an authentic Asian flavor profile.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss together the cooled edamame, cucumber slices, chopped green onions, julienned carrot, and cilantro.
- Dress and Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly but thoroughly to evenly coat all components without bruising the delicate cucumber slices.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for nutty crunch and visual contrast. Serve immediately for optimum freshness and texture.
Tips for Success
- Keep it crisp: Dry cucumbers well to avoid watering down the salad. For added texture, consider peeling strips of cucumber skin alternately for a striped effect.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dressing and blanch edamame a day in advance; store separately in airtight containers. Assemble right before serving to maintain crispness.
- Spice it up: Add thinly sliced fresh red chili or a splash of Sriracha for a bolder profile.
- Substitutions: For a soy-free option, tamari or coconut aminos work beautifully while preserving rich umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Present this salad in shallow bowls for a vibrant display of colors and textures, garnished with extra cilantro sprigs and a wedge of lime to squeeze over for a citrusy kick. This Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad pairs beautifully with grilled teriyaki chicken or lightly pan-seared tofu for a refreshing Asian-inspired lunch or dinner. Accompany it with steamed jasmine rice or a simple miso soup to complete the meal experience.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
For more vibrant and healthful recipes that celebrate fresh ingredients, explore our Fresh Vegetable Salads collection. To learn more about the nutritional benefits of edamame, visit USDA Protein Foods Guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad – A Refreshing Asian Delight
Q1: What makes the Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad so refreshing and unique?
A1: This salad marries the cool, hydrating crunch of cucumbers with the nutty, protein-packed pop of edamame beans. Tossed in a vibrant Asian-inspired dressing with zingy rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of fresh ginger, it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that awakens your palate with every bite.
Q2: Is this salad suitable for special dietary preferences?
A2: Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein thanks to the edamame. It’s a light and nutritious option for anyone seeking a wholesome and satisfying dish that fits various dietary lifestyles.
Q3: Can the salad be prepared ahead of time?
A3: Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead salad. In fact, letting it chill for 30 minutes or more allows the dressing to mingle with the cucumber and edamame, enhancing the overall flavor. Just keep the dressing separate if you prefer a crisper texture and toss it all together right before serving.
Q4: What are some creative ways to serve this salad?
A4: Beyond a standalone side, it’s a versatile addition! Use it as a topping for grain bowls, a fresh filling in lettuce wraps, or even as a zingy accompaniment to grilled fish or tofu. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for an added crunch flair.
Q5: Can I customize the salad to suit different tastes?
A5: Certainly! Feel free to add sliced radishes, shredded carrots, or chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra layers of flavor. Adjust the spice level with a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to give it a subtle kick.
Q6: How does this salad fit into an Asian culinary tradition?
A6: It draws inspiration from classic Asian flavors emphasizing fresh ingredients, balance, and umami-rich dressings. The use of sesame oil, soy, and rice vinegar echoes popular tastes in Japanese and Korean cuisine, making it a modern, healthful nod to beloved Asian culinary principles.
Q7: What’s the best way to keep cucumbers crisp in this salad?
A7: To maintain that prized crispness, slice the cucumbers thinly and, if desired, lightly salt and drain them before mixing. This technique removes excess moisture that can cause sogginess, ensuring each bite is delightfully crunchy and fresh.
With its lively blend of crisp veggies and savory edamame, the Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad is more than just a side dish-it’s a celebration of Asian-inspired refreshment perfect for any season!
In Summary
In the vibrant tapestry of Asian cuisine, the Crisp Cucumber Edamame Salad stands out as a refreshing gem-where cool, crunchy cucumbers and tender, protein-packed edamame unite in a harmonious dance of flavors and textures. This salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a nourishing boost, making it an ideal choice for those seeking light yet satisfying meals. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a side dish, or a centerpiece at your next gathering, this Asian delight promises to elevate your culinary repertoire with its simplicity and zest. Embrace the crispness, savor the freshness, and let this salad be a delicious reminder that healthy eating can be both vibrant and effortlessly delightful.
