Asian Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing
This Asian crunch salad is a game changer, especially for summertime! Packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables and nutty, sweet, tangy peanut dressing, it is a delightful symphony for your taste buds. There are so many ways you can customize it to make it exactly to your liking.
This Asian peanut salad is truly a party in a bowl. There is so much going on, from the vibrant colors, contrasting textures and all the different flavors.
The foundation of this salad is a crispy fresh and crunchy mix of vegetables. No, not so much of the typical spinach or kale.
Think shredded cabbage, sweet carrots, crisp cucumbers, beautiful bell peppers, and more, the ones that will leave you with satisfying crunches.
Then we have to add some plant-based protein to make it a complete meal. My favorite is edamame, which I ate a lot of growing up. It has a mild and slightly nutty flavor and a hint of sweetness to it. The texture is creamier which give a great contrast to the crunchy vegetables.
Chickpeas and Tofu would also be a great option!
Lastly, top off with some honey-roasted peanuts. I love the ones from Trader Joes.
Why I Chose to Use 2 Different Types of Cabbage
I chose to use both types because they add a great color contrast.
My dad loves to add vegetables in dishes that are simply there to add a pop of color.
Well, there is more to the color difference between purple and green cabbages. The purple variety is a bit bolder and more peppery when it comes to taste, while the green cabbage is milder and sweeter.
My parents’ favorite is napa cabbage for any Asian salad. They are much softer but still provide a good crunch. The taste of napa cabbage is also much milder and sweeter.
Ingredients to Make Peanut Asian Salad
Green and Purple Cabbage are the foundation of this salad. You can also throw napa cabbage in the mix.
Carrots whether you buy pre shredded carrots or shred on your own, you can’t go wrong either way.
Cilantro Personally I love cilantro and use a big clump of it, but you can measure based on personal preference.
Cucumbers make sure to slice in very thin strips, it truly is what makes this dish I think.
Roasted Peanuts I like to buy the salted roasted peanuts- not only do they add a nice crunch, but they then already have the salt factor added in!
Peanut Dressing has been one of my staples when it comes to salad dressing, dipping sauce or stir fry sauces. It is nutty, tangy, sweet and savory all at the same time. It is truly a flavor explosion in your mouth.
How to Make Asian Peanut Salad
Can You Save the Salad Leftovers?
The salad is the best to enjoy fresh. Some ingredients in there may drain water once they are salted.
So if you wan to meal prep a big batch, you can save the sliced vegetables separately from the dressing. And when you are ready to enjoy, you can mix the dressing in for the most fresh and crunchy result.
Ways to Customize Asian Crunch Salad
Be bold about the vegetables, protein and toppings you throw in this salad mix!
Add some jalapeno peppers for a little spice kick.
For toppings, you should try sesame seeds, roasted cashews, or fried wonton strips. Think of any of your favorite snack crunches.
There are so many ways to make your taste buds dance. The possibilities are endless.
Asian Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing
Get the recipe:Asian Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing
Ingredients
- 1/4 head Green Cabbage
- 1/4 head Purple Cabbage
- 1/3 cup Shredded Carrots
- 1/3 cup Red pepper
- 1 cup Fresh Cilantro, Roughly packed
- 1 cup Edamame, optional
- 1/3 cup Cucumbers, Thin Sliced, optional
- 1/2 cup Honey Roasted Peanuts
Equipment
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry all the vegetables.
- Thin slice all the vegetables, and chop the cilantro. Add all the ingredients excpet for the roasted cashews to a big bowl.
- Whisk together the ingredients for peanut dressing (Use the whole amount listed in this post).
- Pour the dressing into the bowl with the vegetables. You can use salad spoon and fork or a salad spinner to mix the salad together.
- Add additional salt to taste if needed.
- Top with roasted peanuts and sesame seeds (optional).
The Nutrition Facts above are specific to the ingredients I chose to use for this recipe, which may vary.