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Fresh Thai Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe Easy 5-Minute Lime Chili Peanuts

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A vibrant, tangy, and crunchy Thai cucumber salad with lime, chili, and roasted peanuts, ready in under 5 minutes. Perfect as a fresh side dish with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed
  • Juice of 2 fresh limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1–2 small red Thai chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends of the cucumbers. Place one cucumber on the cutting board and, using the side of a knife or a rolling pin, gently but firmly smash it a few times until it cracks open but is not flattened. Repeat with the second cucumber.
  2. Cut the smashed cucumbers into roughly 2-inch pieces, allowing the juice to bubble out.
  3. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, finely chopped red chilies, minced garlic, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  4. Place the cucumbers in a mixing bowl and pour the dressing over. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces.
  5. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro over the salad and toss gently once more.
  6. Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Do not over-smash cucumbers to avoid a watery salad. Toast raw peanuts lightly in a dry pan for fresher flavor. Keep peanuts separate until serving to maintain crunch if not serving immediately. Adjust chili heat by removing seeds or using milder peppers. For vegetarian/vegan option, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari and add toasted sesame oil for depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai cucumber salad, smashed cucumber salad, lime chili peanuts, quick Thai salad, easy cucumber salad, fresh Thai side dish

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/fresh-thai-smashed-cucumber-salad-recipe-easy-5-minute-lime-chili-peanuts/