Spicy Asian Cucumber and Edamame Salad for Healthy Dinners

If you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious way to spice up your dinner, this Spicy Asian Cucumber and Edamame Salad is just the ticket! I remember one summer evening when my daughter Mia decided to help me in the kitchen. She tossed the cucumbers around like they were a basketball, and we ended up with a salad that was not only fun but also packed with flavor. This Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish is perfect for those nights when you want something light yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Packed with nutrients, this salad is as healthy as it is tasty.
• The spicy kick adds a fun twist that everyone will enjoy.

Pure Comfort

This salad is pure comfort food in a bowl. The crunch of the cucumbers combined with the creamy edamame creates a delightful texture that will have you going back for seconds.

What You Need

• 1 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced (You can use an English cucumber for less bitterness.)
• 1 1 cup shelled edamame (about 8 oz) (Frozen edamame works great; just thaw it.)
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup rice vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.)
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp soy sauce (Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.)
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp sesame oil (For a nut-free version, use olive oil.)
• 1 tsp 1 tsp chili paste (Adjust to taste for more or less heat.)
• 1 tsp 1 tsp honey (Maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.)
• 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp salt (Omit if using soy sauce.)
• 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp black pepper (Freshly ground pepper adds more flavor.)
• 2 2 green onions, chopped (You can substitute with chives if needed.)

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, this salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by slicing the cucumber into thin rounds. You want them to be about 1/8 inch thick so they soak up the dressing well. The vibrant green color will brighten your kitchen.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and shelled edamame. Toss them gently to mix, and enjoy the crunch as you go.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili paste, honey, salt, and black pepper. The aroma of the sesame oil will make your mouth water.
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and edamame mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The salad should glisten with the dressing.
5. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more flavorful.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top. Their fresh flavor will add a lovely finishing touch to your salad.

Make It Perfect

• For added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped bell peppers or carrots.
• If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of chili paste.
• This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.

Mix It Up

• Add some diced avocado for creaminess.
• Incorporate sliced radishes for an extra crunch.
• Swap out edamame for chickpeas for a different protein source.

Perfect Partners

• Serve alongside grilled salmon for a nutritious dinner.
• Pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
• It also makes a great side dish for Asian-inspired dishes.

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FAQs

Conclusion

This Spicy Asian Cucumber and Edamame Salad is a delightful addition to any healthy dinner. With fresh ingredients and a spicy twist, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this Healthy Asian Cucumber Dish together!

Spicy Asian Cucumber and Edamame Salad

This Spicy Asian Cucumber and Edamame Salad is a refreshing, quick, and healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights. It has a spicy kick and delightful crunch, making it both tasty and satisfying.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

0 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Salad, Side

Cuisine American

Equipment

• bowl
• Knife
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber thinly sliced (English cucumber can be used for less bitterness)
• 1 cup shelled edamame about 8 oz, frozen edamame works great; just thaw it
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute
• 2 tbsp soy sauce use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option
• 1 tbsp sesame oil for a nut-free version, use olive oil
• 1 tsp chili paste adjust to taste for more or less heat
• 1 tsp honey maple syrup can be used for a vegan option
• 1/4 tsp salt omit if using soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground pepper adds more flavor
• 2 green onions chopped (can substitute with chives if needed)

Instructions

 

• Start by slicing the cucumber into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick to soak up the dressing well. The vibrant green color will brighten your kitchen.
• In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and shelled edamame. Toss them gently to mix and enjoy the crunch.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili paste, honey, salt, and black pepper. The aroma of the sesame oil will make your mouth water.
• Pour the dressing over the cucumber and edamame mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The salad should glisten with the dressing.
• Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more flavorful.
• Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top. Their fresh flavor will add a lovely finishing touch to your salad.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. For added crunch, consider adding chopped bell peppers or carrots. Adjust chili paste for milder flavor. Pairs well with grilled chicken, tofu, salmon, brown rice, or quinoa.

Keyword Cucumber, easy, edamame, Healthy, quick, Spicy