Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (for quinoa)
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 ½ cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup shelled edamame (frozen, then thawed)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Cook the quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve.
- Combine quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, ginger, lime juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- You may need to thin it slightly with a tablespoon or two of water to make it pourable.
Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, edamame, cilantro, and green onions.
Dress and serve:
- Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and additional cilantro, if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Tips & Customizations:
- Veggie variations: Add other veggies like cucumber, snap peas, broccoli florets, or thinly sliced radishes.
- Protein boost: Include cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added protein.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
- Make it ahead: Both the dressing and cooked quinoa can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making this a perfect meal prep option.
Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful Thai Quinoa Salad!
