Cucumber Edamame Salad

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply wanting a healthy side dish, this salad fits the bill. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and protein-packed edamame makes it both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 15 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and plant-based protein, this Cucumber Edamame Salad is a healthy choice for any meal.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The dressing blends sweet, savory, and spicy notes, allowing you to customize the heat level to your liking.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: With its vibrant colors and textures, this salad is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week; the flavors develop even more as it sits!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Cucumber Edamame Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you achieve precise cuts on the cucumbers and other veggies.
• Whisk or fork: These tools are essential for achieving a well-combined dressing that coats every ingredient evenly.

Ingredients

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is fresh, flavorful and so delicious!

Fresh Ingredients

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

Dressing Ingredients

• 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 (if using chili paste you might want to use less)
• 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 Cucumbers

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. 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 based on your preference.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Mix until everything is well combined. If desired, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy this delicious Cucumber Edamame Salad!

How to Serve Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want it as a refreshing side or a light meal, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Side Dish

• Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair it with Asian-inspired dishes, such as teriyaki chicken or tofu.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with the salad. This makes for a fun, low-carb option!

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a quick and healthy lunch. It’s packed with protein from the edamame and nutrients from the cucumbers.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Mix the salad with cooked quinoa or brown rice for added heartiness. This turns it into a filling meal that’s still light and fresh.

On Toast

• Spread avocado on whole-grain toast and top it with Cucumber Edamame Salad for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

How to Perfect Cucumber Edamame Salad

To make your Cucumber Edamame Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cucumbers and high-quality edamame for the best flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; feel free to tweak it according to your preference.
• Add Texture: Include toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch that complements the soft vegetables.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different fresh herbs like mint or basil for unique flavor variations.
• Make Ahead: Prepare this salad in advance; it keeps well in the fridge for up to two days.

Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Edamame Salad

Cucumber Edamame Salad pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers provide a savory touch that balances the freshness of the salad.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy, these rolls add an Asian flair and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
3. Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles offer a delightful nutty flavor that harmonizes well with the salad’s taste.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa pilaf adds a wholesome grain option that can enhance your meal’s nutritional value.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the crispness of cucumber.
6. Edamame Hummus – This creamy dip can be served alongside fresh veggies, keeping up with the edamame theme while being deliciously satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cucumber Edamame Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cucumber: Regular cucumbers can be watery and bitter. Opt for English cucumbers for a sweeter and crunchier salad.

• Skipping the dressing taste test: Don’t skip tasting your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjusting flavors before mixing can enhance the overall taste.

• Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with half and gradually add more as needed.

• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best taste.

• Cutting ingredients unevenly: Chop cucumbers and edamame into similar sizes for uniform bites. This ensures even flavor distribution in every spoonful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cucumber Edamame Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in cucumbers.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing only the edamame and prepare a fresh salad later.

Reheating Cucumber Edamame Salad

• Oven: Not ideal; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Heat on low power if necessary, but avoid cooking it.
• Stovetop: Gently warm if desired, but serve chilled for best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Cucumber Edamame Salad last?

Cucumber Edamame Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Cucumber Edamame Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrients.

Is Cucumber Edamame Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with protein from edamame and hydration from cucumbers, making it a nutritious option.

What are some serving suggestions for Cucumber Edamame Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, Asian-inspired dishes, or as a light snack on its own.

Can I make Cucumber Edamame Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Edamame Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad offers endless customization options. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavors with every bite!

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

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Cucumber Edamame Salad

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

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Description

Cucumber Edamame Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish bursting with flavor and nutrition. This quick and easy recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and protein-rich edamame creates a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with a zesty dressing featuring sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Ideal as a side dish or light lunch, this salad is versatile enough to complement grilled meats, Asian-inspired fare, or simply enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep—just make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 English cucumbers (diced)
• 1 (12 oz) package shelled edamame (thawed)
• 1 cup chopped green onion
• 1 handful chopped fresh cilantro
• Dressing: neutral oil, rice vinegar, tamari/soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, chili crunch/paste, garlic, ginger

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced cucumbers, thawed edamame, chopped green onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until evenly coated. Chill before serving if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg