Thia Cucumber Salad

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in a fresh and light meal.  This Thia cucumber salad will pair perfectly with that juicy steak or grilled chicken.  Being summertime, cucumbers are at their peak of the season.  They are a good fruit that supplies the necessary water that you are craving and needing
sitting poolside.

Now if the refreshing sound of cucumber doesn't tickle your taste buds, the dressing on this salad is divine.  It plays on the boundaries of sweet and sour.  I could have literally drunk the dressing by itself.  The acidity of the vinegar is complimented by the sugar added and water-nutrient ingredients.


Here are some tips to keep in mind:
          1. I suggest buying the burp-less cucumber or you will be at your wits end after
              enjoying it.
          2. Dice the peppers and onion in small even chunks. If you don't like the onions
              raw because of their pungency, cook them strove top for a few seconds to
              bring out their sweetness.
          3. I cut the cucumber a little larger because it is the main part of the dish.
          4. I replaced the sugar with Truvia.  You lessen the caloric intake of the dressing
              to zero and use half the amount of sugar.
          5. I would add more of the spice mixture to the chickpeas and cook them for
              around 30 minutes for an extra crunch.  Make more than you need because
              they store in the refrigerator very well.
          6. Both the chickpeas and peanuts add another flavor profile that compliments
              the salad well.  Eat them!
          7. Mix the dressing and salad together frequently to keep it from getting too
              soggy in certain areas.  Do not add the chickpeas and peanuts until ready
              to serve.
          8. Eat the salad within the next day to keep the freshness alive.
          9. We got 4-5 meals out of this dish because we used 2 large cucumbers.  I like
              the larger cucumber to pepper and onion ratio.
         10. You could add fresh tomatoes to the dish for another added vegetable and still
               maintain the dish's integrity.

I was hesitant about this recipe because the mixture seemed so random; however, all the pieces fit together perfectly like a puzzle.  For such simple ingredients, there is a mound of flavors fizzling in your mouth.  Whether lounging poolside or enjoying the 4th of July weekend, this salad is a must do for any summer occasion.

Leave a comment below with your poolside plans.  Be sure to follow my Pinterest. Check back again next Wednesday for another slim, summer recipe from The Cooking Bug.