Spicy Thai Carrot and Cucumber Salad with Peanuts
This refreshing Spicy Thai Carrot and Cucumber Salad is a delightful combination of crisp grated carrots and cucumbers tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing. Enhanced with the aromatic flavors of garlic, scallions, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect as a side or a light salad. The crunch of peanuts adds texture and flavor, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Enjoy this vibrant salad chilled for a refreshing taste of Thailand!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
carrots
4 (grated)
cucumbers
2 (grated)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
scallions
2 (minced)
serrano pepper
1 (seeded and minced)
sugar
1.5 teaspoons (n/a)
lime
1 (juiced)
fish sauce
1 tablespoon (n/a)
rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon (n/a)
peanuts
2 tablespoons (chopped)
mint
2 tablespoons (minced)
Thai basil
2 tablespoons (minced)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots and cucumbers.
2
Add the minced garlic, scallions, and serrano pepper to the bowl.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, and rice wine vinegar until the sugar is dissolved.
4
Pour the dressing over the grated vegetables and toss until well combined.
5
Gently fold in the chopped peanuts, mint, and Thai basil.
6
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7
Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and vibrant salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Thai Carrot and Cucumber Salad with Peanuts?
It is a refreshing and vibrant salad made from grated carrots and cucumbers tossed in a tangy, spicy Thai-inspired dressing.
Is this salad very spicy?
The salad has a kick due to the serrano pepper, but you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of pepper used.
How can I make this salad less spicy?
To reduce the heat, remove the seeds from the serrano pepper before mincing or substitute it with a milder pepper like a jalapeno.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan 'no-fish' sauce alternative.
Is the Thai carrot and cucumber salad gluten-free?
The salad is naturally gluten-free, provided your fish sauce brand is certified gluten-free.
What can I use instead of peanuts?
If you have a nut allergy, you can use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
What is the best way to grate the carrots and cucumbers?
You can use a standard box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment for quick preparation.
What if I cannot find Thai basil?
You can substitute Thai basil with regular Italian basil, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
While lime juice provides the most authentic Thai flavor, lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
How long can I store this salad in the refrigerator?
This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as the cucumbers and carrots will lose their crisp texture and become mushy.
What should I serve with this Thai salad?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, satay skewers, steamed fish, or as a side to a spicy curry.
Is there a substitute for rice wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as a mild substitute for rice wine vinegar.
Why do I need to refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes?
Chilling allows the vegetables to marinate and the flavors of the dressing to meld together for a better taste.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Absolutely, you can add cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or tofu to turn it into a main course.
Can I use honey instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in the dressing.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, replace the sugar with a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
What is the role of fish sauce in this recipe?
Fish sauce provides the essential salty, umami depth that is characteristic of Thai cuisine.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots from the store?
Yes, using pre-shredded carrots is a great time-saver for this recipe.
Which type of cucumber works best?
English or Persian cucumbers are preferred because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh mint and basil?
Fresh herbs are highly recommended for this salad as they provide a brightness that dried herbs cannot match.
How do I prevent the salad from getting too watery?
Serve the salad shortly after the 30-minute marinating period, as cucumbers release water the longer they sit.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, shredded cabbage, bell peppers, or edamame would make excellent additions.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
It is great for prep if you store the dressing separately and toss it with the vegetables just before serving.
What makes this salad 'Thai-style'?
The combination of the four pillars of Thai flavor: sweet (sugar), sour (lime), salty (fish sauce), and spicy (serrano).
Can I substitute the serrano pepper with red chili flakes?
Yes, if you don't have fresh peppers, a pinch of red chili flakes can provide the necessary heat.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe typically serves 2 to 4 people as a side dish.
Is the garlic raw in this recipe?
Yes, the garlic is minced and added raw to the dressing for a pungent, sharp flavor.
Can I use cashews instead of peanuts?
Yes, chopped toasted cashews are a delicious alternative to peanuts in this salad.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it is low in fat, high in vitamins from fresh vegetables, and uses a light dressing.