Fresh and Tangy Cucumber Salad

This colorful and refreshing cucumber salad is a summer staple. The rice vinegar, fresh mint, cilantro, and olive oil dressing adds a tangy and herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements the crisp cucumbers. It's a quick and easy side dish that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any summer gathering.

This cucumber salad is inspired by the classic Vietnamese dish goi du du, which is made with shredded green papaya. I first had goi du du at a Vietnamese restaurant in New York City, and I was immediately hooked. I loved the crunchy texture of the papaya and the bright, tangy dressing. I wanted to create a similar salad that was a little easier to make, so I used cucumbers instead of papaya. The result is this fresh and flavorful cucumber salad that's perfect for summer.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, red onion, mint, and cilantro.
2. Whisk together the rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The cucumbers are thinly sliced so that they're easy to eat and they absorb the dressing well.
• The red onion adds a bit of sharpness and color to the salad.
• The fresh mint and cilantro add a bright and herbaceous flavor to the salad.
• The rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper dressing is simple but flavorful.