Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad Recipe
A refreshing Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad combining fluffy quinoa with crunchy cabbage and carrots, all tossed in a flavorful peanut dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, packed with texture and Thai-inspired flavors.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian
Salad
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Peanut Dressing
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin dressing as needed)
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Place quinoa and 2 cups water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, shred the cabbage and carrots finely to ensure a crunchy texture in the salad.
- Make Peanut Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add warm water gradually to reach a smooth and pourable consistency.
- Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded cabbage, and carrots. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the best crunch or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to meld flavors before serving.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or tofu.
- Adjust the lime juice and honey to taste for a more tangy or sweet dressing.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
- This salad can be made ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days; add dressing just before serving to maintain crunch.
Keywords: Thai salad, quinoa salad, peanut dressing, crunchy salad, healthy lunch