As the sun begins to cast longer shadows and summer breezes invite afternoons outside, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad to brighten your meal. My discovery of this Cucumber Edamame Salad, adorned with a delightful sesame-ginger dressing, was a game changer. With crisp cucumbers, nutty edamame, and creamy avocado, this dish sings with flavor and texture—perfectly balancing lightness and satisfaction.
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a make-ahead meal that not only beats the monotony of fast food but also brings a burst of freshness to your table. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or hosting friends, this salad is the answer to your mealtime routine. So grab your chopping board and let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is this Cucumber Edamame Salad a must-try?
Fresh, Unique Ingredients: This salad marries crunchy cucumbers with hearty edamame and creamy avocado, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Quick Prep Time: You can prepare this vibrant dish in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy weekdays.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores beautifully in the fridge, lasting up to 3 days, and tastes even better after resting, allowing flavors to meld.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a meal on its own or as a side with grilled meats or sandwiches for a delightful twist.
Healthy Option: With about 260 calories per serving, this gluten-free and vegetarian salad is as nutritious as it is delicious!
Explore more easy meal prep ideas by checking out our quick recipes.
Cucumber Edamame Salad Ingredients
• Discover the essential elements for a vibrant dish!
For the Dressing
- Avocado Oil – Provides healthy fats and rich flavor; substitute with olive oil if needed.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity and brightness; can be replaced with white wine vinegar for a different tang.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty flavor; regular sesame oil works too, but the toasted variety is more robust.
- Lower-Sodium Tamari/Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor; use coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Freshly Grated Ginger – Offers a zesty kick; ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but fresh provides superior flavor.
- Garlic Clove (grated or minced) – Adds depth; garlic powder can substitute if fresh is unavailable.
For the Salad
- Cucumbers (1 lb, English or Persian) – The main vegetable, perfect for crunch and hydration; slice into rounds or half moons.
- Shelled Edamame (1 cup, frozen/thawed) – Adds protein and texture; chickpeas are a great substitute for variety.
- Large Avocado (cut into cubes) – Brings creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with diced tofu for a vegan twist.
- Thinly Sliced Green Onion (1/2 cup) – Adds mild onion flavor and color; chives can be a tasty alternative.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (2 Tbsp) – Enhances crunch and nutty flavor; consider using hemp seeds for variation.
- Aleppo Pepper Flakes (a pinch) – Adds mild heat; use red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Fresh Basil (optional, 2-3 Tbsp, thinly sliced) – Brings freshness and an aromatic touch; can be omitted or substituted with mint.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make your Cucumber Edamame Salad your own!
How to Make Cucumber Edamame Salad
-
Prepare Dressing: In a large measuring cup or jar, whisk together ¼ cup of avocado oil, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of lower-sodium tamari, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, and 1 grated garlic clove until well combined.
-
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 1 pound of sliced cucumbers, 1 cup of thawed shelled edamame, 1 large cubed avocado, ½ cup of thinly sliced green onions, and 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds until everything is evenly distributed.
-
Season and Dress: Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and a dash of Aleppo pepper flakes for heat. Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing to coat all the ingredients thoroughly.
-
Serve or Store: You can serve the salad immediately or transfer it to an airtight container to refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, allow it to rest for at least an hour in the fridge before enjoying.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or mint for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cucumber Edamame Salad ingredients are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing (avocado oil, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, tamari, ginger, and garlic) up to 48 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, slice the cucumbers and avocado up to 24 hours before serving; just remember to sprinkle some lemon juice on the avocado to prevent browning. For the best flavor, allow the salad to rest for at least an hour after combining all ingredients before serving. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll be able to whip up a refreshing salad quickly, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Cucumber Edamame Salad
- Resting Time: Allowing your Cucumber Edamame Salad to sit for at least 2 hours enhances flavor, letting the ingredients meld beautifully.
- Prevent Browning: To keep your avocado vibrant, store the salad in an airtight container; adding a splash of lemon juice can also help.
- Add Protein: For extra substance, incorporate 1 cup of cooked quinoa or diced chicken/tfo for a heartier meal.
- Substitution Suggestions: Feel free to swap ingredients like chickpeas for edamame or mint for basil to personalize your salad!
- Storage Tips: This salad lasts up to 3 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum texture and flavor.
Cucumber Edamame Salad Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own with these fun twists and swaps!
-
Cherry Tomatoes: Add fresh cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness, enhancing the dish with juicy bursts.
-
Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese on top for a tangy, creamy note—perfect for elevating flavors and textures.
-
Grilled Chicken: Toast your taste buds with grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal—this salad becomes a complete powerhouse!
-
Zesty Lime Juice: Swap rice vinegar with zesty lime juice for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens every bite.
-
Spicy Sriracha: Drizzle in some sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to turn up the heat—perfect for spice lovers.
-
Nutty Almonds: Include slivered almonds for a delightful crunch; they add both flavor and texture to this salad.
-
Quinoa Boost: Mix in a cup of cooked quinoa for a protein-rich addition that transforms your salad into a filling dish.
-
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of basil or mint for a unique flavor profile.
With these variations, your Cucumber Edamame Salad will always feel fresh and exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Edamame Salad
Airtight Container: Store your Cucumber Edamame Salad in an airtight container to prevent avocado browning and maintain freshness.
Fridge: This salad stays perfectly fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For optimal taste, enjoy it within the first couple of days.
No Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of cucumbers and avocado changes once thawed, affecting the salad’s overall quality.
Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature. If desired, you can gently toss it with a little extra dressing before serving for added flavor.
What to Serve with Cucumber Edamame Salad?
As you enjoy this vibrant salad, consider these delightful pairings to create a wholesome meal experience!
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Perfect for protein lovers, their smoky flavor complements the salad’s freshness beautifully.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and fluffy, this creates a hearty base that balances the crunchy salad. Toss in some herbs for extra zest!
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the nutty sesame-ginger dressing, adding an earthy depth.
- Tofu Stir-Fry: A sustainable protein option, the stir-fried tofu adds texture and heartiness, making the meal more filling.
- Sushi Rolls: Their delicate flavors and textures make a delightful contrast to the crunchy salad, creating a fun dining experience.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, these rolls offer a lovely crunch that mirrors the textures in the salad.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and zesty, this drink cleanses the palate and elevates the entire meal. Pair it with fresh lemon slices for a splash of color!
- Berry Sorbet: A light, fruity dessert that cools the palate and wraps up the meal with a sweet farewell.
Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers are best for this salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using English or Persian cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor. Look for ones that are firm and without dark spots or blemishes; they should feel cool to the touch. If those aren’t available, any fresh cucumber variety will work, just slice them thinly for the best crunch.
How long can I store the Cucumber Edamame Salad?
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep your avocado looking fresh, I suggest cooling the salad right after preparation and making sure there’s minimal air exposure. If you’re making this ahead of time, adding a splash of lemon juice to the avocado can help slow down browning.
Can I freeze Cucumber Edamame Salad?
Very! However, I do not recommend freezing this salad. The cucumbers and avocado can become watery and mushy once thawed, ruining the lovely textures you aim for. If you want to prep in advance, stick to refrigerating, and enjoy within the 3-day window.
Is this salad suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! The Cucumber Edamame Salad is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a versatile option for many dietary needs. If you’re concerned about allergies, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option. Just double-check that all ingredients, especially sauces, are labeled gluten-free.
What if I don’t have all the ingredients?
No worries! Feel free to get creative. If you’re missing an ingredient, like fresh ginger, ground ginger can be a quick substitute. You can also switch out edamame for chickpeas if preferred. The beauty of this salad lies in its flexibility, and experimenting with various flavors can lead to delicious results!
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! You can throw in some cherry tomatoes for sweetness or even feta cheese for a creamy, tangy twist. To make it a more filling meal, consider adding in grilled chicken or quinoa. Feel free to tailor the recipe to match your taste preferences!
Cucumber Edamame Salad: Your New Favorite Make-Ahead Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large measuring cup or jar, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
- In a large bowl, mix sliced cucumbers, thawed shelled edamame, cubed avocado, sliced green onions, and toasted sesame seeds until evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and dash of Aleppo pepper flakes. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days; allowing it to rest in the fridge enhances flavor.