This bright salad is packed with crunchy cucumbers and protein-rich edamame, all tossed together in a tasty ginger dressing. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for hot days!
I love how quick this salad is to whip up, making it a perfect side for any meal—or a light lunch on its own! Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For the best crunch, use large, firm cucumbers. If you’re looking for a twist, try Persian cucumbers for their sweetness and thin skin. If you want to avoid cucumbers, you can swap them for zucchini or bell peppers.
Edamame: Shelled edamame adds protein and a nutty taste. If you’re not a fan, chickpeas or kidney beans can also make a great substitution, just make sure to drain and rinse them well.
Cilantro: This herb brightens the salad, but it’s optional. If you’re not a cilantro fan, fresh parsley or mint are good alternatives that add their unique flavors.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives an exciting kick to the dressing. If you can’t find fresh ginger, use ground ginger at a pinch, about half the amount, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor Balance in the Dressing?
The ginger dressing is key to making this salad vibrant. To balance flavors, start with the base ingredients: soy sauce and rice vinegar. They add saltiness and acidity. Make sure to whisk them together first.
- Add in sesame oil for nuttiness; it enhances the umami of the soy sauce.
- The honey or maple syrup adds sweetness to balance the acidity. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Fresh ginger and garlic give depth. Grate the ginger finely for a smoother texture; minced garlic should be small to avoid overpowering.
- Taste the dressing before pouring it on the salad. Adjust the lime juice for extra tang, and don’t forget salt and pepper!
By following these steps, you’ll create a dressing that truly elevates your salad!
Refreshing Cucumber Edamame Salad with Ginger Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups shelled edamame (cooked and cooled)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
For the Ginger Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, allowing it to chill for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully. So, in total, you’re looking at about half an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers and placing them in a large bowl. Add the cooked and cooled edamame, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro if you’re using it. Give everything a gentle toss to mix it up.
2. Make the Ginger Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and lime juice. Make sure to combine everything until it’s smooth. Taste your dressing and add salt and pepper as needed—this will make it flavorful!
3. Combine and Toss:
Now, pour the ginger dressing over your cucumber and edamame mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
4. Add the Final Touch:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It’s the finishing touch that makes this salad even more enjoyable!
5. Chill and Serve:
To really let the flavors shine, cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This step is essential! Once ready, serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or light snack.
Enjoy this crisp, zesty salad that perfectly balances cool cucumbers, hearty edamame, and the zing of fresh ginger! Perfect for any occasion! 🌟
FAQs for Refreshing Cucumber Edamame Salad
Can I Use Frozen Edamame in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shelled edamame works perfectly. Just cook according to package instructions, then cool them quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process before adding them to your salad.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some crispness the longer it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the salad and the dressing separately and combine them right before serving. Just remember that if you dress the salad too early, the cucumbers might become soggy.
What Else Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to customize the salad! You can add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch, or even some avocado for creaminess. If you want more protein, tofu or chicken can also be great additions.
