Cucumber Edamame Salad

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the crispness of cucumbers and the protein-packed goodness of edamame. Perfect for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or even as a light meal, this salad stands out with its delightful flavors and easy preparation. You’ll love how quickly it comes together while still providing a satisfying crunch and bold taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for busy days when you need something fresh and healthy in a hurry.
• Flavorful & Fresh: The combination of cucumbers, edamame, and a zesty dressing creates a flavor explosion that is both refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues, toss it into your lunchbox, or enjoy it as a light dinner; this salad fits any occasion!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools. These will help you create your Cucumber Edamame Salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spills.
• Small bowl for dressing: Ensures that your dressing is mixed well before combining it with the salad.

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 (e.g., 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cucumber Edamame Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, add all dressing ingredients. Mix until combined. Give it a taste and adjust ingredient amounts as needed for your preference.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Mix everything until combined well. If desired, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your Cucumber Edamame Salad as a refreshing side dish or light meal!

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this refreshing salad is sure to impress.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light and healthy meal.
• Pairs well with rice dishes, adding a crunchy texture.

On Top of Greens

• Serve it over mixed greens for a heartier salad option.
• Add some avocado slices for extra creaminess and flavor.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps or lettuce cups for an easy lunch option.
• Pair it with hummus or your favorite spread to enhance the taste.

With Quinoa or Brown Rice

• Mix it with cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber.
• This combination makes it an excellent choice for meal prep.

How to Perfect Cucumber Edamame Salad

To ensure your Cucumber Edamame Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cucumbers and edamame for the best flavor and crunch.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust ingredients based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad cool in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.
• Add Texture: Consider adding nuts or seeds, like toasted sesame seeds, for an extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad can complement various side dishes, making your meal complete. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp grilled to perfection pair wonderfully with this salad.
2. Asian Noodle Salad: A cold noodle salad tossed in peanut sauce offers contrasting flavors and textures.
3. Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory teriyaki chicken adds a delightful contrast to the crispness of the salad.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for a beautiful presentation.
5. Sushi Rolls: Fresh sushi rolls bring an authentic touch, enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and balances the refreshing qualities of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cucumber Edamame Salad, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Chopping the cucumbers too large: If the cucumber pieces are too big, they won’t mix well with the edamame. Aim for small, bite-sized pieces for even texture.
• Ignoring the dressing balance: Overdoing one ingredient can overpower the salad’s flavor. Taste as you mix to ensure a balanced dressing.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Omitting cilantro or other fresh herbs can make the salad bland. Always include fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
• Not allowing it to chill: Serving immediately can lead to a less flavorful dish. Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
• Using stale ingredients: Old edamame or wilted cucumbers can ruin your salad. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain crispness.

Freezing Cucumber Edamame Salad

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to cucumber’s high water content, which affects texture.

Reheating Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Oven: Preheat and warm at low heat (about 300°F) until just warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat and stir gently until warmed, avoiding mushiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.

What can I use instead of tamari in Cucumber Edamame Salad?

You can substitute tamari with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

How do I make Cucumber Edamame Salad vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products.

What are some serving suggestions for Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch option.

How long does Cucumber Edamame Salad last in the fridge?

The salad stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy snack. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins! Enjoy this delightful dish today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cucumber Edamame Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

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

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly balances crisp cucumbers and protein-rich edamame. Ideal for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or as a light meal, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With its delightful flavors and crunchy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Plus, it takes only 15 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when you crave something healthy yet delicious. The zesty dressing enhances the fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this versatile salad will impress all palates.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 English cucumbers, small diced
• 1 (12 oz) package shelled edamame, thawed overnight
• 1 cup chopped green onion
• 1 handful chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup neutral flavored oil (e.g., 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
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Dice the cucumbers into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl along with the edamame, green onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg