Cucumber Edamame Salad

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp cucumbers and hearty edamame, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or as a flavorful side for dinner, it’s sure to impress. The combination of fresh herbs and a zesty dressing makes each bite delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad takes just 15 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice even on busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and protein, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side, a light lunch, or even add grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade dressing adds a burst of flavor that elevates the simple ingredients.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the cucumbers, edamame, and cilantro make this dish visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you will need for this Cucumber Edamame Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for dressing)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk or fork (for mixing dressing)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, making preparation easier and safer.

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 to taste)
• 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-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. Mix until well combined. Give it a taste and adjust ingredient amounts as needed.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated. Top with toasted sesame seeds if desired and enjoy!

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as a side or as a light main course, it’s bound to impress your guests with its fresh flavors and vibrant colors.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect for BBQs: This salad enhances grilled meats beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Accompany Asian Dishes: Pair it with stir-fries or teriyaki chicken for a well-rounded meal.

In a Wrap

• Refreshing Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with this salad for a light lunch.
• Tortilla Rolls: Spread the salad on tortillas, roll them up, and slice for easy finger food.

As a Snack

• Enjoy It Chilled: Serve this salad cold as a healthy snack option to curb cravings.
• With Crackers: Pair with whole-grain crackers for added texture and flavor.

On Top of Rice Bowls

• Boost Your Meals: Add this salad on top of rice bowls for extra nutrients and taste.
• Mix It Up: Combine with grains like quinoa or farro for a filling dish.

How to Perfect Cucumber Edamame Salad

To elevate your Cucumber Edamame Salad, consider the following tips for an even tastier experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and herbs will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your preference—more vinegar for tanginess or more maple syrup for sweetness.
• Add Crunch: Include toasted sesame seeds or nuts like almonds for an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft edamame.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Try Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like mint or basil to give your salad a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance; just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Edamame Salad

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that complement Cucumber Edamame Salad perfectly. They offer variety and enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
2. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A simple side that absorbs flavors from the main dish while balancing textures.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls provide an additional layer of crunch and are great for dipping.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Packed with protein, quinoa pilaf adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s flavors.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the cold salad nicely, creating a balanced meal.
6. Tofu Stir-Fry: Sautéed tofu mixed with veggies makes for a hearty addition alongside your refreshing salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cucumber Edamame Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not chopping ingredients uniformly: If the cucumber and edamame are not chopped to similar sizes, the salad will be uneven in texture. Aim for small, bite-sized pieces for a balanced experience.
• Skipping the dressing taste test: Failing to taste the dressing before adding it can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always give it a quick taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount, mix well, and add more if needed.
• Using low-quality oil or vinegar: The quality of your oil and vinegar affects the overall flavor of the Cucumber Edamame Salad. Choose high-quality, neutral oils and vinegars for the best taste.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs provide unique flavors that dried herbs cannot replicate. Always use fresh cilantro for an authentic taste in your salad.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cucumber Edamame Salad in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to keep it separated from dressings if you don’t want it to get too soggy.

Freezing Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture.
• If you must freeze, do so without dressing; it may last up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This method might alter freshness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Use caution not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat in a pan, stirring frequently until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a refreshing dish made from diced cucumbers, shelled edamame, and fresh herbs dressed with a flavorful mixture of oils and seasonings.

Can I make Cucumber Edamame Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for edamame in this salad?

You can use green peas or cooked chickpeas as alternatives if you don’t have edamame on hand.

How do I customize my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or include proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds well in the fridge and makes for a great make-ahead meal option. Just store components separately until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only fresh and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. With its bright flavors and crunchy textures, it’s perfect as a side dish or light meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try today!