Ensaladang Pipino, or Filipino cucumber salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Made with crisp cucumber slices, sharp red onions, and fiery Thai peppers, this simple yet flavorful salad is brought to life with a vinegar-based dressing that enhances every bite. It’s the ideal side dish to complement grilled meats, seafood, or traditional Filipino entrées, adding a light, palate-cleansing contrast to hearty meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is quick to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving a refreshing side dish, Ensaladang Pipino delivers the perfect crunch with just the right amount of heat and acidity. Plus, it requires only a handful of ingredients, making it an effortless addition to your meal.
Ensaladang Pipino Variations:
Tomato & Red Onion Pipino Salad – Adding sliced tomatoes enhances the sweetness and juiciness of the dish, complementing the tangy vinegar dressing.
Pipino Salad with Fish Sauce – Some versions incorporate fish sauce for an umami depth that pairs well with grilled meats.
Sesame Oil Infused Pipino Salad – A drizzle of sesame oil gives the salad a subtle nutty aroma and an Asian-inspired flavor.
Pipino Salad with Soy Sauce – A splash of soy sauce adds a savory note, balancing the acidity of the vinegar.
Spicy Pipino Salad – Increasing the number of Thai peppers or adding chili flakes intensifies the heat for spice lovers.
Pipino Salad with Bell Peppers – Thinly sliced bell peppers add crunch, color, and a mild sweetness to the dish.
Pickled Pipino Salad – Letting the cucumbers marinate longer creates a more pickled flavor, making it a great side for heavier dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pcs Cucumbers, Sliced into rounds
- 1 pc Small Red Onion, Julienne cut
- 1/2 cup White Vinegar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp White Sugar
- Fresh pepper, Chopped
Instructions
Instructions
- 1
Ingredient Preparation: Slice the cucumbers into rounds and julienne the red onion. Cut the Thai peppers into small pieces, ensuring they are not finely chopped.
- 2
Dressing Preparation: In a mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, salt, ground black pepper, and Thai peppers. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- 3
Assembly: Place the sliced cucumbers and julienned onions in a large bowl. Pour the prepared vinegar mixture over the vegetables and gently toss until well coated.
- 4
Marination: Allow the salad to rest for 15 minutes, enabling the flavors to develop fully.
- 5
Final Touch & Serving: Mix once more before serving. This dish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or traditional Filipino entrées.
Notes
Notes
- For extra crunch, chill the cucumbers before slicing.
- Adjust sugar and salt levels based on personal preference.
- If you prefer a milder spice, remove the seeds from the Thai peppers before adding them.
- Try substituting rice vinegar for a slightly sweeter, less acidic taste.
Equipment
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Large serving bowl
- Spoon or tongs for tossing
Nutrition
Nutrition
| Calories | 30 |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Final Thoughts
Ensaladang Pipino is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of Filipino flavors, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or alongside your favorite home-cooked meal, this dish is bound to impress. Try it out, experiment with flavors, and make it your own!
Have you made Ensaladang Pipino before? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments!
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