Cucumber Edamame Salad

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is a vibrant dish that brings together crisp cucumbers and protein-packed edamame, making it a perfect side for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. Its fresh flavors and crunchy textures make it not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of cucumbers and edamame creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side salad, or bring it to picnics and potlucks—everyone will love it!
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this salad makes for a guilt-free addition to any meal.
• Flavorful Dressing: The unique dressing elevates the salad, adding depth without overpowering its fresh ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cucumber Edamame Salad efficiently, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large mixing bowl
• A small mixing bowl
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without creating a mess.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when dicing cucumbers and mincing garlic.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables.

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 (adjust as needed)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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-sized 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. Mix until everything is well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust ingredient amounts if necessary.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

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

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

This refreshing Cucumber Edamame Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a light lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad is perfect on its own as a light meal. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it satisfying.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a fun twist. The crispness of the lettuce adds an extra layer of texture.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or tofu. The fresh flavors complement the smoky taste of grilled foods wonderfully.

As a Refreshing Appetizer

• Start your meal with this salad as an appetizer. Its vibrant colors and crunchy textures are sure to impress your guests.

On Grain Bowls

• Add it to grain bowls for a nutritious boost. It pairs well with quinoa, brown rice, or farro for a complete meal.

With Dips and Chips

• Enjoy it alongside tortilla chips or pita bread for a crunchy snack. The salad’s flavors work well as a dip too!

How to Perfect Cucumber Edamame Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Edamame Salad is always delicious, consider these tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh cucumbers and herbs for the best taste. Fresh produce makes all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Don’t hesitate to modify the dressing ingredients based on your palate. A little more tamari or vinegar can elevate the dish.
• Add Texture – Consider adding nuts or seeds like toasted sesame seeds for crunch. This will add another dimension to your salad.
• Chill Before Serving – Let the salad chill in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Dressings – Try different dressings like lemon vinaigrette for a citrusy twist. Variety keeps things exciting.
• Use Leftovers Creatively – If you have leftover salad, use it in wraps or sandwiches. It’s great for quick lunches!

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and smoky, grilled corn adds great contrast to the crisp salad.
2. Thai Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies bring an Asian flair that matches perfectly.
3. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic provide hearty satisfaction alongside this light salad.
4. Zucchini Noodles – Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles can be tossed in a similar dressing for cohesion in flavors.
5. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the coolness of the salad.
6. Vegetable Sushi Rolls – These rolls offer another delightful way to enjoy fresh vegetables in Asian-inspired cuisine.
7. Fruit Skewers – Bright fruit skewers add sweetness and color, making them an appealing side option.
8. Quinoa Pilaf – A flavorful quinoa pilaf brings additional protein while maintaining a healthy balance on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Cucumber Edamame Salad is easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cucumber type: Always opt for English cucumbers. They are less watery and have fewer seeds, making your salad crisper and more flavorful.
• Not thawing edamame properly: Ensure you thaw the edamame overnight. This helps achieve the perfect texture and prevents excess water from diluting the dressing.
• Skipping the dressing taste test: Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the flavors to your preference, enhancing the overall taste of your Cucumber Edamame Salad.
• Chopping ingredients unevenly: Cut all vegetables and herbs into similar sizes for a balanced bite. This makes each forkful delightful and visually appealing.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds brightness to your salad. Don’t skip it; if you’re not a fan, consider swapping it with parsley or another herb you enjoy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the water content in cucumbers.
• If necessary, freeze only the edamame and store separately.

Reheating Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes in a covered dish.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments of 15-20 seconds until warmed through, avoiding overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Cucumber Edamame Salad last?

Cucumber Edamame Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I customize my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or swap out herbs based on your preferences.

Is Cucumber Edamame Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep as it stays fresh for several days when stored correctly.

What can I serve with Cucumber Edamame Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, or as part of a larger spread at gatherings. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only fresh and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the dressing ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try and explore all its delicious possibilities!

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Cucumber Edamame Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines crisp cucumbers with protein-rich edamame, making it an ideal side for any meal. This vibrant salad is not only quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but it also offers delightful flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Whether served at a summer barbecue, picnic, or as a light lunch, this salad shines with its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing. Perfectly versatile, you can enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or alongside grilled proteins for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Dice the cucumbers into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the thawed edamame, chopped green onion, and cilantro.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently until everything is coated.
5. Chill for best flavor before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg