FOR THE SALAD

½ medium red onion, very thinly sliced

2 large English cucumbers, halved lengthwise, seeded and sliced crosswise ¼-inch thick

⅓ cup packed chopped fresh cilantro

½ cup salted peanuts

1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (or use 1-2 Thai chiles for more heat)

¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

FOR THE DRESSING

¼ cup fresh lime juice, from 2-3 limes

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1½ tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons sugar

1 garlic clove, minced

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the onions in a small bowl of cold water. Let sit for ten minutes, then drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.

Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk the lime juice, oil, fish sauce, sugar, and garlic.

Add the drained red onions, cucumbers, cilantro, peanuts, and jalapeño pepper to the dressing. Taste and add the salt if necessary. Serve the salad within 30 minutes.