Thai Peanut Salad – Fresh and Flavorful
This Thai Peanut Salad is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. The crunchy vegetables pair perfectly with the creamy, savory peanut dressing. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the richness of Thai cuisine in a way that anyone can make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a side to complement your meal, this salad has it all. The peanut dressing is the star, tying together crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and roasted peanuts for a deliciously tangy and nutty finish.
Ingredients
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For the salad
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
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For the peanut dressing
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2-3 tbsp warm water (to thin out the dressing)
Directions
Prepare the veggies. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, mint (if using), and green onions. Toss them together to distribute evenly.
Make the peanut dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Slowly add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
Combine and serve. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.
Serve. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Recipe tips
For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make this a heartier meal. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing. Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—it really brightens up the dish! To keep the vegetables crisp, only dress the salad just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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