Crunchy Baby Corn & Cucumber Salad
This vibrant, no-cook salad combines the crispness of baby corn and cucumber with the sweetness of carrots and a zesty lime-sesame dressing, making it a perfect light lunch or refreshing side.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the baby corn on the bias into 1/4-inch rounds. Halve the cucumber lengthwise, and if desired, scoop out the seeds with a spoon for a less watery salad, then slice thinly into half-moons. Shred the carrot using a box grater or julienne peeler. Thinly slice the red onion, preferably using a mandoline for uniform pieces.
Combine vegetables: Place the sliced baby corn, cucumber, shredded carrot, and thinly sliced red onion into a large mixing bowl.
Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the salt has dissolved.
Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Add the chopped fresh cilantro and fresh mint.
Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad using tongs or your hands until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing and herbs. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if using, just before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Uniform Slicing: For the best texture and visual appeal, aim for uniformly thin slices of baby corn, cucumber, and red onion. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this.
- 2Chill for Flavor: While delicious immediately, allowing the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes before serving can help the flavors meld and intensify, without sacrificing too much crunch.
- 3Seed Removal: For a less watery salad, especially if making ahead, consider scooping out the seeds from the cucumber before slicing. This helps maintain the salad's crispness.
- 4Fresh Herbs are Key: Don't skimp on the fresh cilantro and mint; they are crucial for the salad's bright, refreshing flavor profile.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked and shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or pan-fried tofu cubes for a more substantial meal.
Spice KickSpice Kick
Introduce a touch of heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced fresh chili to the dressing.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Incorporate chopped roasted peanuts or cashews along with the sesame seeds for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Baby corn, cucumber, and carrots are packed with essential vitamins like Vitamin A and C, and minerals, supporting overall health and immunity.
Hydrating and Low Calorie
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad incredibly hydrating and low in calories, perfect for weight management.
Digestive Health
The high fiber content from the vegetables aids in healthy digestion and promotes gut health.
Frequently asked questions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch. However, you can prep the vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine and toss just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
