Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad

Name: Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped peanuts; 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines crunchy vegetables with a creamy, flavorful peanut dressing.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:14:30.264Z

This Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad brings together a medley of fresh vegetables and a rich peanut sauce that is both satisfying and nutritious. It's perfect for a light meal or as a side dish at your next gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken your taste buds
Crunchy texture that adds excitement to every bite
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad is a delightful medley of fresh ingredients that harmonize beautifully. The combination of crisp vegetables like cabbage and bell pepper provides a refreshing crunch, while the creamy peanut dressing adds a rich, savory depth. Each bite bursts with flavor, making this salad not only satisfying but also a feast for your senses.

The dressing is the star of the show, with its balance of sweetness from honey, tanginess from rice vinegar, and umami from soy sauce. This perfect harmony elevates the salad, making it a standout dish at any gathering or a comforting meal during a busy week.

Nutritional Benefits

This Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The fresh vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health and well-being. Cabbage and carrots, for example, are known for their antioxidant properties and can help support your immune system.

Peanut butter, a key ingredient in the dressing, is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It helps keep you full and satisfied, making this salad an excellent option for a light lunch or a side dish. With its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a nutritious choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to turn this salad into a complete meal.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or nuts. For instance, try adding snap peas for extra crunch or swapping out peanuts for cashews. This adaptability makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining, as you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Peanut Dressing

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons water (to thin)

Mix all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Prepare the dressing separately.

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, and green onions. Toss well.

Make the Peanut Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Add water to achieve desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Top with chopped peanuts before serving.

Enjoy your crunchy Thai peanut salad as a refreshing meal or side dish!

Serving Suggestions

This Crunchy Thai Peanut Salad pairs wonderfully with various dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Serve it alongside grilled meats or fish for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. The vibrant flavors complement Asian-inspired dishes beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

For a complete meal, consider adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This not only elevates the salad but also makes it more filling, perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of rice or noodles for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you're looking to meal prep, this salad is a fantastic option. You can prepare the vegetables in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the peanut dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the salad's crunchiness.

When stored properly, the salad can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good toss with the dressing before serving to ensure everything is well coated and fresh. This makes it a convenient choice for busy weekdays or quick lunches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep the vegetables crunchy.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this salad can be made gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for peanuts?

You can use sunflower seeds or cashews if you have a nut allergy.

→ How long does the dressing last?

The peanut dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.