Description
This vibrant and flavorful Simple Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce combines crisp vegetables and tender protein with an irresistible, creamy peanut dressing. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Salad:
- 4 cups shredded red cabbage
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- (Optional) 2 cups cooked and sliced chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp
- For the Creamy Peanut Sauce:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened recommended)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for vegan)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 2–4 tbsp warm water (for desired consistency)
- For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, diced cucumber, sliced bell pepper, and sliced scallions. Add your cooked protein if using.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and Sriracha until smooth.
- Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously, until the sauce reaches a pourable, creamy consistency.
- Pour about ¾ of the peanut sauce over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Divide the salad into serving bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins (if adding protein)