I’ve always loved how a simple salad can feel both light and satisfying, especially when it’s as invigorating as this chilled cucumber noodle version. With its crisp spiralized cucumbers, tangy dressing, and colorful veggies, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish. What makes it even better? It’s ready in just 15 minutes. If you’re looking for a fresh twist on your usual salads, this one’s worth a try.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Chilled Cucumber Noodle Salad is a revitalizing and healthy dish perfect for summer or light meals. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
- The cool cucumber noodles are crisp and hydrating, making it a perfect low-calorie option.
- The tangy dressing adds a zesty, flavorful kick without being overpowering.
- It’s versatile—pair it with grilled proteins or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Recipe
A rejuvenating and light dish perfect for summer or as a healthy side, this Chilled Cucumber Noodle Salad is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Made with crisp cucumber noodles, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs, it’s a guilt-free option for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, spiralized into noodles
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber noodles, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro or parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
For extra crunch, add toasted cashews or peanuts. Adjust the level of sweetness or spice to taste.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Serving:
4 servings
Calories:
Approximately 50 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Asian-inspired, Vegan, Gluten-Free (if using tamari)
Equipment
To prepare the Chilled Cucumber Noodle Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process efficient. Gathering the right equipment guarantees smooth preparation and presentation.
- Spiralizer or vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork for dressing
- Serving plates or bowls
Nutrition
This Chilled Cucumber Noodle Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish perfect for warm weather. Packed with fresh ingredients, it offers a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals.
- Low in calories and high in fiber.
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Provides hydration due to high water content in cucumbers.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil and sesame seeds.
- A good source of antioxidants from fresh herbs like mint and parsley.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this invigorating Chilled Cucumber Noodle Salad with something hearty, like Grilled Chicken Skewers or Herb Crusted Salmon, to balance the flavors. If I’m craving something lighter, I go for Garlic Butter Shrimp or a side of Lemon Herb Quinoa. And, let’s be real, no meal feels complete without a slice of Crusty Garlic Bread to round it all out!
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Grilling chicken skewers is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a simple, flavorful meal, and pairing them with the right sides can make all the difference. I love experimenting with flavor pairing, like adding a zesty marinade or sweet glaze, while keeping the cooking techniques straightforward. Juicy, charred skewers pair perfectly with chilled cucumber noodle salad, creating a meal that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
Herb Crusted Salmon
Herb-crusted salmon is a dish that’s as impressive as it is simple to make, and finding the right sides to complement it can take your meal to the next level. I love experimenting with herb selection, like dill, parsley, or thyme, to match the salmon’s richness. Pair it with cooking techniques like roasting or pan-searing for a crispy crust. It’s a meal that feels fancy but lets you keep it easy.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
When you’re whipping up a batch of garlic butter shrimp, it’s all about finding sides that balance its rich, savory flavor without stealing the spotlight. I love experimenting with shrimp marinades, like a zesty lemon-garlic mix, to keep things fresh. Garlic variations, from roasted to minced, add depth without overpowering. Pair it with something light, like a crisp salad or steamed veggies, to let the shrimp shine. It’s simple, satisfying, and totally customizable!
Lemon Herb Quinoa
After enjoying the bold flavors of garlic butter shrimp, I often crave something lighter yet just as satisfying. Lemon herb quinoa is my go-to, packed with quinoa benefits like protein and fiber. I love mixing in fresh herb varieties like parsley, dill, and cilantro for a zesty kick. It’s simple, versatile, and pairs perfectly with the chilled cucumber salad, giving you a meal that feels both nourishing and freeing.
Crusty Garlic Bread
There’s nothing quite like a slice of crusty garlic bread to round out a meal, especially when paired with something light and revitalizing like chilled cucumber noodle salad. I love experimenting with bread variations—sourdough, baguette, or even ciabatta—to add texture. For garlic infusions, I’ll mix butter with roasted garlic, fresh herbs, or a pinch of chili flakes. It’s simple, satisfying, and lets the flavors shine without overwhelming the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Time’s a river, and I’ll ride its flow—meal prep’s my anchor. I can make this salad ahead, tucking it into salad storage like a secret, ready to free my future self from the kitchen’s chains.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
I can confirm it’s gluten-free if I use gluten-free ingredients like rice noodles or spiralized zucchini. I’m mindful of dietary restrictions, so I always double-check labels to verify everything’s safe and fits my lifestyle.
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
I’d totally swap in alternative noodle options if I wanted to—it’s my dish, after all. I’d pick something that complements my flavor pairings, like zucchini noodles or rice noodles, to keep it feeling fresh and free.
How Long Does This Salad Stay Fresh?
I’ve found this salad stays fresh for about 2-3 days if stored properly. For freshness tips, keep it airtight in the fridge. Storage methods matter—avoid leaving it out longer than 2 hours to savor its crispness.
Can I Substitute the Yogurt With a Non-Dairy Option?
Thinking outside the box, I’d say go for it! There’s a world of yogurt alternatives at your fingertips—coconut, almond, or soy-based dairy-free options can easily step in. You’ve got the freedom to make it your own.
