Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s packed with flavor, the Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is just what you need! This salad has become a cherished favorite in my home. It’s not only easy to whip up but also perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its crunchy textures and a creamy peanut dressing that will have your taste buds dancing, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a delightful side, this salad shines bright with its colorful ingredients and delicious flavors. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, so it fits into various dietary needs effortlessly. Let me share why you’ll fall in love with this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is short.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crunchy textures and tasty dressing—no more complaints at dinner!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this salad in advance, making it an ideal option for meal prepping your week.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables and the savory peanut dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the salad with your favorite veggies or nuts to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how they come together to create such a delicious dish!

For the Salad

• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 pound frozen edamame (not in the shell) (16 ounce)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 2 cups finely chopped kale
• 2 large carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 cup chopped roasted cashews (can sub for peanuts)
• Optional: crispy wonton strips

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter (preferably unsalted)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons sriracha (can omit if you don’t like spice)
• 2-4 tablespoons water to thin

Variations

One of the best parts about this Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and sweetness.
• Swap the Protein: If you’re looking for added protein, try adding chickpeas or grilled tofu.
• Change Up the Nuts: Use almonds or walnuts instead of cashews for a different flavor profile.
• Opt for Spicy: If you love heat, add more sriracha or even some diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch!

How to Make Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Add it to a pot with 1 cup of water and cook according to package instructions. Cooking quinoa perfectly gives it that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Edamame

While the quinoa cooks, place the frozen edamame in a bowl with 1/2 cup of water and cover it. Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes until heated through, or steam them on the stove. This step makes sure your edamame is tender and ready to enjoy.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

As everything cooks, take this time to prepare your vegetables. Shred the cabbage using a mandoline, finely chop the kale, grate the carrots, and chop scallions and cilantro. Freshly chopped veggies add vibrant color and crunch to your salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once both quinoa and edamame have cooled down (about 10 minutes), gather all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Adding them while slightly warm enhances their flavors even more!

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a shaker bottle or mason jar, combine all dressing ingredients: peanut butter, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, soy sauce or tamari, ginger, garlic, sriracha, and water. Whisk until smooth! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; don’t be shy!

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Pour the creamy dressing over your quinoa mixture in the bowl. Gently mix until everything is coated evenly. Mixing well ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Top off your salad with chopped roasted cashews and sprinkle some red pepper flakes if desired. These toppings add an extra layer of crunch which complements all those juicy veggies beautifully.

And there you have it—your Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is ready! Enjoy this delightful dish as part of lunch or dinner; I promise it won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

Creating a delicious salad is all about the little details, and with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to salad perfection!

• Prep Ahead: Prepare your ingredients in advance to save time during the week. Chopping veggies and cooking quinoa can be done a day ahead, making lunch prep a breeze.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for ones you prefer or have on hand. Adding bell peppers or cucumbers can add a refreshing crunch.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less sriracha in the dressing and gradually add more to taste. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy it without overwhelming their palate.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic flair, but if you’re not a fan, basil or mint can also work beautifully. Fresh herbs brighten up any dish!

• Make It a Meal: For a heartier option, consider adding grilled tofu or chickpeas for extra protein. This transforms your salad into a filling main course.

How to Serve Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

Presentation makes all the difference when it comes to enjoying this vibrant salad. Here are some delightful ways to serve it!

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds flavor and a lovely crunch.
• Lime Wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their salad for an extra zing.
• Fresh Herbs: A few extra sprigs of cilantro or chopped scallions on top make for an appealing finishing touch.

Side Dishes

• Cucumber Sushi Rolls: Refreshing and light, cucumber sushi rolls pair perfectly with this salad’s bold flavors while still keeping things healthy and fun.

• Miso Soup: This warm soup complements the crunch of your salad beautifully and offers umami depth that enhances your meal experience.

• Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the salad’s savory notes while providing additional nutrients.

• Steamed Broccoli with Garlic: Lightly steamed broccoli tossed with garlic brings both color and additional health benefits to your table, making it a great sidekick for this crunchy dish.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, your Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dining table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it a convenient choice for lunches throughout the week. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover components:
• Store the quinoa and edamame separately in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen components, gently reheat quinoa and edamame in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Mix all ingredients together after reheating.
• Add fresh veggies and dressing after reheating for the best texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad!

Can I make Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for edamame in this salad?

If you can’t find edamame, you can use green peas or chickpeas as an alternative. They will provide similar texture and protein content.

How long does Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until serving.

Can I customize this Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out cashews for other nuts or seeds based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad as I was when I first created it! It’s not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients and flavor that will brighten up any lunch or dinner. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to play around with ingredients to make it your own. Happy cooking!