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Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad

Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad
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The Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and protein-packed dish that combines fluffy quinoa with crunchy vegetables, toasted nuts, and a zesty Thai-inspired dressing. This salad delivers a delightful blend of textures and bold flavors, perfect for a healthy, energizing meal that can be enjoyed as a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep option.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

Vegetables

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1 red bell pepper, julienned
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Nuts

  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts, toasted

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook it in a pot with 2 cups of water according to package instructions until fluffy. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool completely to avoid wilting the vegetables later.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots and red bell pepper, thinly slice the green onions, and chop the cilantro. Keeping the vegetables fresh and crisp is vital for that signature crunch.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chili flakes if using. Taste and adjust the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors to your liking.
  4. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, prepared vegetables, and chopped peanuts. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to combine all flavors and textures evenly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro on top before serving for extra texture and an attractive presentation.

Notes

  • Cool quinoa completely to prevent sogginess and preserve the salad’s crunch.
  • Use fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions for optimal flavor and freshness.
  • Lightly toast peanuts to enhance their flavor and add crunch.
  • Taste and adjust the dressing to achieve a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.
  • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best refreshing experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai quinoa salad, protein-packed salad, crunchy salad, healthy salad, quinoa recipe, vegan salad, gluten free salad, meal prep salad

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/thai-quinoa-crunch-salad/