Zesty Thai Cucumber Relish
This vibrant and zesty cucumber relish is a refreshing Thai side dish that perfectly complements dishes like satay. With its crisp cucumbers, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapeños, this condiment adds a delightful balance of flavors to grilled meats and more.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
English cucumbers
2 (rinsed, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced)
medium red onion
1/2 (chopped)
jalapeño pepper
1-2 (seeded and chopped)
fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
soy sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
sesame oil
1 tablespoon (none)
unsalted dry roasted peanuts
1/4 cup (chopped, for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1
1. Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly and pat dry with a towel. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the seeds.
2
2. Slice the cucumbers thinly into half-moons and place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
3
3. Add the chopped red onion and jalapeño peppers to the bowl with the cucumbers. Stir gently to combine.
4
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined.
5
5. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
6
6. If desired, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let the flavors meld together, or serve immediately for a fresher taste.
7
7. Before serving, garnish the salad with chopped unsalted dry roasted peanuts, if using.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Thai Cucumber Relish?
Zesty Thai Cucumber Relish is a vibrant and refreshing side dish typically served in Thai cuisine to complement grilled meats like satay.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients in this relish?
The main ingredients include English cucumbers, red onion, jalapeño peppers, lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Should I peel the English cucumbers?
No, the recipe suggests rinsing them and keeping the skin on, as English cucumbers have thin, edible skin.
Why do I need to remove the seeds from the cucumbers?
Removing the seeds helps keep the relish crisp and prevents it from becoming too watery.
How should the cucumbers be sliced?
The cucumbers should be sliced thinly into half-moons after being halved lengthwise.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a spicy kick from the inclusion of 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can use only one jalapeño or remove all the seeds from the peppers to make it milder.
What type of onion is best for this relish?
A medium red onion is recommended for its color and sharp, sweet flavor.
What is in the dressing for the relish?
The dressing is a simple whisked mixture of fresh lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
How long should I marinate the relish before serving?
For the best flavor meld, it is recommended to refrigerate the relish for at least one hour, though it can be served immediately.
What is the recommended garnish?
The relish is garnished with chopped unsalted dry roasted peanuts for added crunch.
Are the peanuts mandatory?
No, the peanuts are optional and can be omitted if you have a nut allergy.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
The recipe specifies fresh lime juice for the best zesty flavor.
What kind of oil is used in this recipe?
Sesame oil is used to provide a rich, nutty aroma to the dressing.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the ingredients listed, including soy sauce and vegetables, are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is this relish gluten-free?
Standard soy sauce contains wheat; to make this gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free alternative.
How many jalapeños should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, depending on your heat preference.
What is the texture of this dish?
The texture is crisp and crunchy due to the fresh cucumbers, onions, and optional peanuts.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 7 ingredients required for this recipe.
What tags describe this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as Thai, spicy, fresh, quick, easy, and a condiment or side dish.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, it can be stored in the refrigerator, though the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time.
Does this dish contain cholesterol?
Based on the plant-based ingredients, this dish is naturally cholesterol-free.
What should I do with the cucumbers first?
You should rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry with a towel before preparation.
How much lime juice is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
Is any cooking involved?
No, this is a raw, no-cook recipe involving only chopping and mixing.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The flavor is zesty, tangy, and spicy with a hint of nuttiness from the sesame oil.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple for larger gatherings.
Why is it called a 'relish'?
It is called a relish because it serves as a chopped vegetable condiment used to enhance the flavor of other dishes.
What is the best way to mix the dressing?
Whisk the lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a separate small bowl before pouring it over the vegetables.