Description
Vibrant Thai-Inspired Salad Bowl
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups shredded purple cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cooked edamame
1 cup bean sprouts
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (or cashews)
Lime wedges (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
1 tsp sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Water to thin (if needed)
Directions
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the purple cabbage, shredded carrots, edamame, bean sprouts, cucumber slices, and cilantro.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and lime juice. Add water, a little at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
Assemble: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Garnish: Top with chopped peanuts and serve with lime wedges for an extra citrusy kick!
Enjoy: Serve immediately as a main dish or side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~240 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Vegetables: Finely shred the purple cabbage and carrots using a mandoline or sharp knife. Thinly slice the cucumber. Chop the cilantro and peanuts.
2. Cook Edamame: If using frozen shelled edamame, cook according to package directions, then rinse under cold water to cool.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and lime juice. Whisk vigorously until completely smooth. If the dressing is too thick, whisk in water one teaspoon at a time until it is pourable.
4. Assemble the Bowl: In a large serving bowl or individual bowls, create layers or sections with the cabbage, carrots, edamame, bean sprouts, and cucumber.
5. Finish & Serve: Drizzle the dressing generously over the salad. Top with chopped cilantro and peanuts. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is incredibly versatile. For a heartier main course, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or baked tofu. Serve it alongside spring rolls or satay skewers for a full Thai-inspired feast. To pack it for lunch, keep the dressing separate in a small container and add just before eating to maintain the perfect crunch.
How-to Summary
Quickly shred cabbage and carrots, slice cucumber, and chop herbs. Whisk together a simple, creamy peanut-lime dressing. Toss everything in a bowl, garnish with nuts and lime, and enjoy a vibrant, crunchy meal ready in 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but store the components separately. Keep the chopped veggies and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine just before serving.
What’s a good substitute for peanut butter? Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent alternatives for different allergies or flavor preferences.
Is this salad gluten-free? It can be! Simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in the dressing.
How can I add more protein? Incorporate baked tofu, chickpeas, shredded chicken, or a larger portion of edamame to boost the protein content.
My dressing is too thick. What did I do wrong? Nothing! Peanut butter dressings often need thinning. Just add water, one teaspoon at a time, while whisking until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overdressing the salad, as it can make the vegetables soggy. Start with half the dressing, toss, and add more as needed. Do not use warm edamame, as it will wilt the other vegetables; ensure it’s cooled. Finally, don’t skip the fresh lime juice—its acidity is crucial for balancing the rich, savory dressing.
Conclusion
This Thai-Inspired Salad Bowl is more than just a recipe; it’s a template for a fast, flavorful, and nutritious meal. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy peanut dressing, and fresh herbs delivers an explosion of texture and taste. It proves that healthy eating can be exciting, satisfying, and incredibly simple to achieve any day of the week.