The moment the sun starts shining brighter and the days stretch a little longer, I find myself gravitating towards lighter, fresh meals. One dish that consistently catches my eye is the Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot and Roasted Peanuts. Picture this: crisp cucumbers drenched in a tangy miso ginger orange dressing, accented by the sweet crunch of shallots and the nutty goodness of roasted peanuts. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that reminds me of summer picnics and gatherings around the grill.
I stumbled upon this vibrant salad while looking for a quick, healthy dish to complement our backyard barbecues—something to offer my friends who were tired of greasy takeout. With its gluten-free and vegan credentials, not only does it satisfy cravings, but it also makes a refreshing statement without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout star at potlucks, this salad will surely impress all who taste it. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings a touch of the East to your table!
Why is Miso Cucumber Salad a Must-Try?
Fresh and Bright: This salad bursts with summer flavors, combining crispy cucumbers and a zesty dressing that’s perfect for warm days.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for those last-minute gatherings or busy weeknights.
Nutritious Delight: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Unique Flavor Harmony: The balance between the umami miso, the sweet crunch of shallots, and the nuttiness of peanuts creates a complex yet delightful taste experience.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a refreshing side at picnics or paired with grains for a main dish, this salad adapts effortlessly to any occasion.
Miso Cucumber Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Cucumbers – Use about 4 cups sliced fresh cucumbers for that crispness and crunch; avoid any that appear wrinkled or soft.
• Shallot – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor; make sure it’s thinly sliced for even distribution.
• Fresh Cilantro – Offers aromatic herb notes; if cilantro isn’t your favorite, substitute it with parsley.
• Roasted Peanuts – Bring a satisfying crunch and nuttiness; you can swap them for sunflower seeds to keep it nut-free.
For the Dressing
• Miso Paste – The star ingredient that delivers umami flavor to your dressing; feel free to substitute it with tahini or sunbutter if needed.
• Orange Juice – Provides a refreshing sweetness and acidity; lemon juice works as an alternative quite well.
• Maple Syrup (optional) – Adds an extra touch of sweetness if desired; agave or date syrup can be used for a different flavor.
With this vibrant Miso Cucumber Salad on your table, you’re not just serving a dish—you’re inviting an experience that celebrates fresh ingredients and joyful gatherings!
How to Make Miso Cucumber Salad
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Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by peeling and thinly slicing 3 medium cucumbers, which should yield about 4 cups. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even texture and flavor.
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Salt the Cucumbers: Sprinkle your sliced cucumbers with 1 teaspoon of salt, letting them sit for 1 hour. This process draws out moisture, enhancing their crunchiness. Afterward, drain, rinse, and pat dry with a paper towel.
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Slice Shallots and Crush Peanuts: Thinly slice 1/2 cup of shallots and set them aside. Next, crush 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts to add delightful crunch to your salad.
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Make the Dressing: In a blender, combine 1/4 cup of orange juice, 3 tablespoons of miso paste, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon each of fresh ginger and sesame oil. Blend until smooth and creamy—this is your zesty dressing!
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the prepared cucumbers, sliced shallots, and fresh cilantro to taste. Add in the crushed peanuts and drizzle your dressing over the top. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with reserved crushed peanuts for that extra crunch. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Optional: Serve chilled for a refreshing twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot and Roasted Peanuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the cucumbers and dressing up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply slice and salt the cucumbers, letting them drain and then refrigerate them in an airtight container. Prepare the dressing by blending the ingredients, and store it separately in the fridge. On the day of serving, combine the drained cucumbers, shallots, cilantro, and peanuts, then drizzle with the dressing just before enjoying. This way, your salad remains fresh and crisp, offering you a delightful dish with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot and Roasted Peanuts?
The perfect meal is just around the corner, begging for delicious pairings that enhance every refreshing bite of your salad.
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Grilled Tofu Skewers: The smoky flavor of grilled tofu complements the salad’s freshness, creating a harmonious balance on your plate. These skewers are not only versatile but also packed with protein.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy, nutty quinoa provides an excellent contrast in texture, while its light flavor captures the essence of the salad without overshadowing it. Pairing these two will leave you satisfied yet light.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add a rich texture, making each bite more decadent while blending beautifully with the salad’s crunchy elements. It’s a perfect way to amp up your healthy fats!
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Brown Rice: A warm serving of brown rice rounds out the meal, soaking up the bright citrus notes of the dressing and offering a hearty base. This combo keeps you full without feeling weighed down.
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Sesame Ginger Dressing: Drizzling extra dressing over a mixed greens salad adds another depth of flavor that resonates with the Miso Cucumber Salad. It’s simple yet elevates your meal to a whole new level.
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Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake pairs impeccably, enhancing the umami flavor of the miso while refreshing your palate. Enjoying this drink will amplify the cultural experience of your meal.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet provides a sweet finish that complements the salad’s crunch and tang. The fruity notes will dance on your taste buds, leaving you smiling.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites filled with fresh veggies offer a fun crunch that echoes the textures of your salad. They’re an entertaining way to level up your appetizer game!
Let your creativity flow as you combine these pairings for a meal that not only is flavorful but also celebrates the freshness of seasonal ingredients!
Expert Tips for Miso Cucumber Salad
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Perfect Salting: Always salt the cucumbers before the salad preparation. It helps draw out excess moisture, preventing a watery Miso Cucumber Salad.
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Immediate Serving: For the best flavor and crunch, serve the salad immediately after dressing. If you let it sit, the cucumbers may become soggy.
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Meal Prep Friendly: If preparing in advance, keep the cucumber and dressing separate until ready to serve. This keeps the salad fresh and crisp longer.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest cucumbers and shallots possible, as they truly enhance the flavors in the Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot and Roasted Peanuts.
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Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the dressing’s sweetness with more maple syrup or a splash of lemon juice for personal preference.
Storage Tips for Miso Cucumber Salad
Fridge: Store leftover Miso Cucumber Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release moisture, making the salad watery over time.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the cucumbers will become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you prefer a slight warmth, serve it at room temperature after refrigerating, but avoid reheating.
Prep Ahead: Keep cucumbers and dressing separate for meal prep, combining them only when ready to serve for the freshest taste and texture.
Miso Cucumber Salad Variations
Customize your salad and discover exciting twists that will elevate your Miso Cucumber Salad experience!
- Nut-Free: Replace roasted peanuts with sunflower seeds for a deliciously crunchy, nut-free option.
- Add Heat: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick that adds depth.
- Creamy Twist: Mix in a dollop of avocado for an extra creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the dressing.
- Fruit Infusion: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet boost that complements the umami of the miso.
- Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, swap it out for fresh mint or basil for a different aromatic experience.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier dish, incorporate grilled tofu or chickpeas, turning this salad into a satisfying meal.
- Sweet Citrus: Use lime juice instead of orange juice in the dressing for a zesty and refreshing alternative that brightens the flavors.
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for vibrant colors and crispy textures that enhance the salad’s appeal.
Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot and Roasted Peanuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cucumbers for this salad?
Absolutely! Opt for medium-sized cucumbers that are firm and free from any blemishes. Look for those without wrinkled skin or soft spots, as they indicate overripeness. Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are key to a delightful salad experience!
Can I store leftovers of the Miso Cucumber Salad?
Yes, you can! Store any leftover Miso Cucumber Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers might release moisture over time, which can make the salad a bit watery, so enjoy it fresh for the best texture!
Is freezing the Miso Cucumber Salad an option?
Unfortunately, freezing isn’t advisable for this salad. Cucumbers tend to become mushy once thawed, losing their refreshing crunch. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so I recommend making it just before serving!
What should I do if my Miso Cucumber Salad turns out too salty?
If you find your salad too salty, here’s what you can do: add a little more diced cucumber or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to help balance the saltiness. The added tanginess can work wonders in bringing harmony back to your salad.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
The Miso Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. If you’re concerned about nut allergies, simply swap out the roasted peanuts for sunflower seeds or crunchy seeds of your choice to keep your salad nut-free without sacrificing texture!
How can I enhance the flavor profile of the Miso Cucumber Salad?
For a more complex flavor, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even diced avocado. Incorporate different herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist. Feel free to personalize the dressing by adjusting the sweetness or acidity to your liking!
Crunchy Miso Cucumber Salad with Shallot & Roasted Peanuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and thinly slice cucumbers to yield about 4 cups.
- Sprinkle sliced cucumbers with salt and let sit for 1 hour; drain, rinse, and pat dry.
- Thinly slice shallots and crush roasted peanuts.
- Blend orange juice, miso paste, maple syrup, fresh ginger, and sesame oil until smooth for the dressing.
- In a large bowl, mix cucumbers, shallots, cilantro, and crushed peanuts; drizzle dressing and toss gently.
- Garnish with reserved crushed peanuts and serve immediately.