This Thai Watermelon Cucumber Salad is a cool and zesty treat, perfect for hot days! It’s filled with juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and a splash of citrusy dressing.
I love how it’s a snap to make, and the flavors just pop! It’s so refreshing, you might just want to eat it for every meal. Seriously, it’s that good! 🥗🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use sweet, ripe watermelon for the best flavor. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe works as a nice substitute for a similar texture. You want a juicy fruit that pairs well with cucumber.
Cucumber: A refreshing cucumber adds crunch. English cucumbers are great here since they have fewer seeds. If you want something a bit bolder, try using a Persian cucumber or even a zucchini!
Red Chili: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you prefer less spice, omit the chili or use milder peppers, like bell peppers. You can also use crushed red pepper flakes for a different texture.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro bring brightness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh basil is an excellent and fragrant substitute that complements the flavors beautifully.
Fish Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. For a vegan option, try using soy sauce or tamari as an alternative. It’ll give a nice umami touch without the fishiness!
How Do I Cut the Watermelon for the Best Texture?
Cutting watermelon can be tricky! To make it easy:
- First, slice the watermelon in half. Stand each half up on its flat side for stability.
- Cut each half into long wedges, then slice those wedges into bite-sized cubes. Just a few cuts will do!
- Make sure to drain any excess juice that collects in the bowl, so the salad doesn’t get soggy.
This method keeps the cubes uniform and prevents mess while ensuring you have perfectly sized pieces for nice bites in your salad!
Refreshing Thai Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1/4 cup red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced into rings
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few moments chopping everything up, mixing the dressing, and tossing it all together. If you’d like to chill it before serving, add an extra 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the bite-sized watermelon cubes and the diced cucumber. This creates a fresh and juicy base for your salad!
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add in the thinly sliced red chili and shallots to the bowl. This adds a lovely crunch and a bit of zing to the mix.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, palm sugar, and minced garlic. Keep mixing until the sugar dissolves completely—you want a balanced and tasty dressing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the watermelon and cucumber mixture. Toss everything gently to combine the ingredients evenly, making sure every bite is full of flavor!
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, fold in the chopped fresh mint and cilantro leaves into the salad. These herbs will brighten up the dish and add a vibrant taste!
6. Final Touch:
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delicious crunch that complements the soft textures of the fruit and veggies.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your salad immediately for the freshest experience, or cover it and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully. Either way, it’s a delightful dish that you’ll love!
This salad brings together a perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavors, making it an ideal dish for warm days or any occasion that calls for something light and vibrant!
FAQ About the Refreshing Thai Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Fruit?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can mix in other fruits like cantaloupe or mango for added sweetness and flavor. Just keep the texture in mind to ensure a good balance!
How Spicy is This Salad?
The spice level can be adjusted easily! If you’re sensitive to heat, consider reducing the amount of red chili or using milder peppers like bell peppers instead. You can always add more seasoning later if desired!
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can prep the salad ahead of time! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients, especially the watermelon and cucumber, which can become mushy if mixed too early.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is best served chilled! You can serve it immediately after tossing or refrigerate for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main on a warm day!
