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Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad Recipe

4.5 from 102 reviews

A vibrant and crunchy Thai peanut salad featuring a creamy, tangy peanut dressing tossed with fresh romaine, purple cabbage, carrots, and fragrant cilantro. This refreshing salad can be enhanced with plant-based protein like edamame for a nutritious and satisfying meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Dressing

  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 2 ½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon agave syrup, brown sugar, or maple syrup

Salad

  • 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro
  • Chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
  • Plant-based protein of choice (optional, e.g., edamame)

Instructions

  1. Make the dressing: In a standard bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, water, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and your chosen sweetener until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
  2. Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded romaine lettuce, shredded purple cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped cilantro. Toss these fresh ingredients to mix evenly.
  3. Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the prepared peanut dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Add toppings and serve: Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the salad for added crunch, and add plant-based protein such as edamame if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • The salad is best eaten fresh to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.
  • For added protein, tried and tested options include baked tofu or chickpeas as alternatives to edamame.
  • If you prefer a thinner dressing, add more water one teaspoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
  • This salad is naturally vegan and can be prepared ahead if the dressing is kept separate and mixed just before serving.

Keywords: Thai peanut salad, vegan salad, crunchy salad, peanut dressing, plant-based protein, healthy salad, no-cook recipe