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Thai Peanut Quinoa Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 7 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious Thai Peanut Quinoa Salad combining fluffy cooked quinoa with fresh vegetables, mango cubes, and a fragrant herb mix, all tossed in a creamy homemade peanut dressing. Perfect as a light meal or side dish, this salad offers a refreshing balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a crunchy peanut finish.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups quinoa, cooked and cooled
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 mango, cut into cubes
  • 2 scallions, sliced
  • 3 tbsp chopped basil
  • 3 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp chopped mint
  • 3 tbsp peanuts

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 23 tablespoons warm water, to thin if necessary

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked and cooled quinoa, shredded red cabbage, chopped cucumber, mango cubes, sliced scallions, chopped basil, cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the dressing.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or using a small blender, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce or tamari, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of warm water gradually to achieve the desired consistency.
  3. Toss Salad and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the quinoa salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the peanut dressing. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled salad experience.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • If you prefer a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup.
  • To add extra protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or tofu.
  • You can substitute peanuts with cashews or almonds for different nut flavors.
  • Adjust lime juice and honey/maple syrup to taste for more tang or sweetness.