Introduction
Discover the refreshing and vibrant Long Bean, Cucumber, and Tomato Salad. This delightful dish combines crisp vegetables with a tangy dressing to create a perfect blend of flavors that’s both light and satisfying. The combination of long beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
Tips for this recipe
- Soak dried chiles in warm water to mellow their heat before using.
- Chop cucumbers coarsely, keeping some texture for a more enjoyable bite.
- When combining ingredients, do so gently to maintain the integrity of the vegetables.
Why you will love this recipe
This Long Bean Salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also an exercise in culinary simplicity. Its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation make it ideal for summer gatherings or a quick, healthy meal. The dressing’s balance of savory and acidic notes elevates the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Ingredients
2 dried Thai chiles (soaked), 3 small garlic cloves, 1/4 lime, 1 tablespoon palm sugar or granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon dried tiny shrimp, 9 long beans, 2 kirby cucumbers, 6 cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, and 2 tablespoons crushed roasted peanuts.
Adviced equipments
- Mandoline Slicer: For evenly sliced vegetables.
- Vegetable Peeler: To peel and use cucumbers as needed.
- Salad Spinner: To dry leafy greens for the salad dressing or garnish.
- Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife Set: For safely preparing ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining and tossing the salad.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure dressing components.
- Food Processor (Optional): To chop vegetables quickly if desired.
- Salad Bowl with Compartment Dividers: For portion control during serving.
- Serving Utensils (Tongs & Spoons): For gently tossing the salad without damage.
- Cutting Glasses or Bottles (Optional): To serve refreshing beverages alongside the salad.
History of the recipe
The Long Bean, Cucumber, and Tomato Salad is a reflection of Thai cuisine’s love for fresh vegetables. While not directly traced to a single origin story, this dish represents the fusion of flavors that are characteristic of Thailand’s diverse culinary landscape. The use of ingredients like dried chiles and palm sugar can be linked to traditional preservation techniques used in various parts of Asia.
fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Long beans, also known as yard-longs or Chinese green beans, have been a staple in Thai cuisine for centuries due to their versatility and nutritional benefits. This salad exemplifies the balance of flavors—a fundamental concept in Thai food culture, where every ingredient has its place within the harmony of taste, texture, and color.