Thai-Inspired Sunomono with Jalapeno, Cilantro, and Basil Recipe

Sunomono Salad

This refreshing and flavorful sunomono salad is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. Light yet satisfying, it's ideal as a side dish or a starter. The combination of fresh cucumbers, herbs, and zesty dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

• cup rice vinegar (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon white sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or to taste)
• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced (or to taste)
• bunch cilantro, coarsely chopped (or to taste)
• 2 sprigs fresh basil, coarsely chopped (or to taste)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, lemongrass, and soy sauce until well combined.
2. Stir in the thinly sliced cucumbers, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, and basil. Mix everything together gently to ensure even coating with the dressing.
3. For a stronger flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour, or even overnight. This will allow the ingredients to marinate and intensify the flavors.

Cook's Notes

• If you dont have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar (such as Bragg).
• In case you run out of sesame oil, peanut butter can serve as a substitute in a pinch.
• If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can replace it with sugar substitute (about 4 packets of a sugar alternative).
• For extra flavor, you might want to try adding fish sauce or hoisin sauce as toppings.
• For a more intense flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge overnight before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.