This Thai peanut salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Perfect for any occasion, from picnics to dinner parties, it stands out with its crunchy cabbage, savory peanuts, and zesty dressing. You can serve it as a side dish or elevate it to a main course by adding chicken. This versatility makes the Thai peanut salad a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Fresh Vegetables
- Optional Protein
- Dressing Ingredients
- How to Make Thai Peanut Salad
- Step 1: Mix Fresh Ingredients
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
- How to Serve Thai Peanut Salad
- As a Side Dish
- As a Main Dish
- For Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Thai Peanut Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Thai Peanut Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Thai Peanut Salad
- Reheating Thai Peanut Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Thai Peanut Salad?
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Is Thai Peanut Salad healthy?
- How can I customize my Thai Peanut Salad?
- What to serve with Thai Peanut Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Flavorful and Crunchy: The mix of fresh veggies and the creamy peanut dressing creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light side or transform it into a hearty main by including chicken.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is both delicious and good for you.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing your Thai peanut salad easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl helps combine all your ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups: Ensures you get the right amounts for each ingredient, crucial for flavor balance.
- Whisk or fork: Ideal for mixing the dressing thoroughly so every bite is flavorful.
Ingredients
This Thai peanut salad is so tasty with fresh shredded cabbage, peanuts, chopped veggies, tossed with a tasty peanut dressing. It makes a perfect side salad or you can make it a main dish chicken salad by simply adding chopped cooked chicken.
Fresh Vegetables
- 4 cups cabbage (shredded)
- ½ cup cucumber (peeled and chopped)
- ½ cup green onions (sliced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (if you want spice use ¼ cup hot red pepper, diced)
Optional Protein
- Optional: make it a full meal by adding 12 ounces diced cooked chicken
Dressing Ingredients
- ⅓ cup peanut butter (use all natural peanut butter)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar or regular vinegar
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (tamari, or regular soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar substitute (or regular sugar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon ginger paste (or finely minced ginger)
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Thai Peanut Salad
Step 1: Mix Fresh Ingredients
- In a large bowl add cabbage, cucumber, green onions, peanuts, pepper, and chicken (if you’re using it).
- Toss gently to combine all the fresh ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl mix the peanut butter, olive oil, rice vinegar, coconut aminos, sugar substitute, garlic, ginger paste, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Use a whisk or fork to blend until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are coated in the dressing.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment!
How to Serve Thai Peanut Salad
This Thai peanut salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a light side dish or a filling main course, it’s sure to please everyone at your table.
As a Side Dish
- Complement with Grilled Meats: Pair this salad with grilled chicken or beef for a delightful balance of flavors.
- Serve with Rice: A scoop of jasmine or brown rice on the side enhances the meal’s heartiness.
As a Main Dish
- Add Protein: To make the salad a full meal, incorporate diced cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein.
- Wrap It Up: Use the salad as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fun and fresh twist.
For Meal Prep
- Pack for Lunch: This salad stores well in containers, making it perfect for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or nuts to tailor the flavor and texture to your liking.
How to Perfect Thai Peanut Salad
Creating the ultimate Thai peanut salad involves some simple tips that enhance its flavor and freshness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cabbage and crisp veggies to maintain crunchiness.
- Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the salad an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- Experiment with Dressings: Try different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique twists on the dressing.
Best Side Dishes for Thai Peanut Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Thai peanut salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls provide a light and refreshing complement.
- Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the salad.
- Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn on the cob adds a nice charred flavor that contrasts well with the salad.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting umami that balances the freshness of your main dish.
- Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame makes a protein-rich snack that goes well with Asian-inspired meals.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings in natural sweetness and acidity, enhancing your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Thai peanut salad experience. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Opt for all-natural peanut butter. Processed varieties can alter the flavor and consistency of the dressing.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies like cabbage and cucumber are essential. Stale or wilted produce can ruin the freshness of your salad.
- Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. Overdressing can make the salad soggy.
- Neglecting seasoning: Always taste your salad before serving. A little salt and pepper can enhance flavors significantly.
- Not customizing: Feel free to add proteins like chicken or tofu. Not exploring these options may limit the salad’s potential as a main dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Freezing Thai Peanut Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of vegetables after thawing.
- If necessary, freeze only the dressing for up to 2 months.
Reheating Thai Peanut Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes, covered.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Toss in a skillet over low heat until just warmed, being careful not to overcook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Thai peanut salad:
What is Thai Peanut Salad?
Thai peanut salad is a refreshing dish made from shredded cabbage, fresh veggies, peanuts, and a creamy peanut dressing. It’s great as a side or main dish.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad without the dressing ahead of time. Just add the dressing right before serving for maximum freshness.
Is Thai Peanut Salad healthy?
Absolutely! It contains plenty of fresh vegetables and healthy fats from peanuts. You can also make it keto-friendly by adjusting some ingredients.
How can I customize my Thai Peanut Salad?
You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, swap out vegetables based on your preferences, or adjust spice levels with different peppers.
What to serve with Thai Peanut Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood. It also works great as part of a larger spread during gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Thai peanut salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a light side dish or a satisfying main meal with added protein, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your tastes!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Thai Peanut Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Thai Peanut Salad, a refreshing dish that combines crunchy vegetables with a creamy peanut dressing. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether as a light side dish or a hearty main course by adding protein like chicken or tofu. The delightful mix of fresh cabbage, cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers creates a satisfying medley that bursts with taste. With its easy preparation and versatility, this Thai Peanut Salad is ideal for meal prep or a quick dinner option. Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or pack it for lunches throughout the week—it’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- ½ cup chopped cucumber
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper (or ¼ cup hot red pepper)
- ⅓ cup natural peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- Optional: 12 ounces cooked chicken, diced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cucumber, green onions, peanuts, bell pepper, and chicken if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, olive oil, rice vinegar, coconut aminos, sugar substitute, garlic, ginger paste, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving immediately or refrigerating for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
