Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s not only vibrant but also packed with flavor and crunch, you’ve found it! This Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and family gatherings. It’s simple to whip up yet impressive enough to serve at a potluck. The combination of fresh veggies, hearty quinoa, and a creamy peanut dressing makes this salad both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

Every bite bursts with texture and flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or needing a quick side dish, this salad has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, this salad fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from edamame and quinoa, it’s a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or nuts to make it your own!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad stores well in the fridge, so you can prepare it in advance and grab it on the go.
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy peanut dressing adds a mouthwatering zing that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is a breeze thanks to simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find at your local store. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
• Change Up the Nuts: Use sunflower seeds or almonds if you’re looking for a different nutty flavor.
• Switch Your Grains: Swap quinoa for brown rice or farro for a different texture and taste.
• Boost the Protein: Add some chickpeas or grilled tofu to make it even heartier.

How to Make Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating. Then, add it to a pot with 1 cup of water. Cooking the quinoa properly is essential because it helps achieve that fluffy texture we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Edamame

While the quinoa cooks, place your edamame in a bowl with ½ cup of water and cover it. You can microwave on high for 5-7 minutes or steam them on the stove. Cooking them this way ensures they stay tender yet crisp.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

As everything cooks, take some time to prepare your vegetables. Shred the red cabbage (a mandoline works wonders), finely chop the kale, grate your carrots, and chop scallions and cilantro. Fresh veggies keep this salad bright and flavorful!

Step 4: Cool Down

Once the edamame and quinoa are done cooking, let them cool for about 10 minutes before mixing them with other ingredients. Cooling prevents wilting when combined with fresh greens.

Step 5: Whisk Together Dressing

In a shaker bottle or mason jar, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk until smooth! Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences—don’t be shy here!

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, edamame, all chopped veggies, and pour in that delicious dressing. Mixing ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 7: Serve with Style

Top your salad with chopped roasted cashews and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. This final touch adds an extra layer of crunch!

Now you’re ready to dive into this delightful Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

This salad is all about fresh flavors and delightful textures, so let’s make sure you get the most out of your ingredients!

• Choose Fresh Veggies: Using fresh vegetables like kale and cabbage not only enhances the crunch but also boosts nutritional value. Fresh produce makes the salad more vibrant and flavorful.

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less sriracha in the dressing. You can always add more later! This way, everyone can enjoy the salad according to their spice tolerance.

• Make Ahead for Meal Prep: This salad stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Prepare it ahead of time for quick lunches during the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

• Experiment with Proteins: For added protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or grilled tofu. This not only adds heartiness but also makes it even more filling.

• Use Different Nuts: While roasted cashews add a lovely crunch, feel free to swap them for other nuts such as almonds or even sunflower seeds if you’re nut-free. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture!

How to Serve Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad

Serving this salad can be just as fun as making it! With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s sure to impress at any gathering or meal prep session.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nice nutty flavor and a bit of elegance to your salad.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of citrus when you’re ready to eat. Just squeeze some juice over your portion for an extra zing!
• Microgreens: For a touch of sophistication, top with microgreens. They elevate the presentation while adding additional nutrients.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements this crunchy salad beautifully, providing a comforting contrast.
• Cucumber Sushi Rolls: Light and refreshing cucumber sushi rolls pair perfectly with the flavors in the salad, making for a satisfying meal.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast and are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli tossed in sesame oil rounds out your meal with more green goodness and adds an extra crunch.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, I hope you feel inspired to create your own Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad masterpiece! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for quick lunches or light dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If storing the dressing separately, add it just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Freezing

• It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the texture of the vegetables may become soggy.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing only the quinoa and edamame, then combine with fresh veggies upon thawing.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer it warm, gently reheat quinoa and edamame in the microwave before adding to the rest of the ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious salad!

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews in the Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute cashews with peanuts or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor and crunch. Just make sure they’re roasted for added taste.

How can I make the Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad spicier?

If you love heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the dressing or add some diced fresh chili peppers to your salad mix. Enjoy experimenting!

Is this Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad gluten-free?

Yes! When using low sodium soy sauce, opt for tamari to ensure it’s completely gluten-free. Always check labels when purchasing ingredients.

How long does it take to make the Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad?

This flavorful salad comes together quickly! With a total time of around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something healthy and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Asian Edamame Peanut Crunch Salad as much as I do! With its delightful crunch and savory flavors, it’s truly a special dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a meal prep week or a casual gathering with friends, I’m sure it will be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!