Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Crunch Salad with Citrus Peanut Dressing is a refreshing, vibrant, and texture-packed dish that blends crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a zesty, nutty dressing. Perfect as a main or a side, this salad delivers bold Southeast Asian flavors with every bite and makes for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of color.

ingredients

Thai Crunch Salad + Citrus Peanut Dressing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

green cabbage
red cabbage
carrots
red bell pepper
cucumber
edamame
green onions
fresh cilantro
roasted peanuts
crispy wonton strips (optional)

For the Citrus Peanut Dressing:
creamy peanut butter
soy sauce
lime juice
orange juice
rice vinegar
honey or maple syrup
fresh garlic
fresh ginger
toasted sesame oil
sriracha (optional, for heat)
water (to thin as needed)

directions

Shred the green and red cabbage and place in a large mixing bowl.

Julienne the carrots, red bell pepper, and cucumber. Add them to the bowl.

Add cooked edamame, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro.

Toss all the veggies together until evenly combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sriracha.

Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.

Top with roasted peanuts and crispy wonton strips if using.

Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 as a main dish or 6–8 as a side
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chill time (optional): 15–30 minutes
Total time: 20–50 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty profile.
Swap edamame for shelled peas or chickpeas.
Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Make it spicier with more sriracha or Thai chili flakes.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate if making ahead for meal prep to preserve the salad’s crunch.
Not suitable for reheating; best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, just store the dressing separately and toss before serving.

Is this salad vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?
Absolutely, it’s a great time-saver.

How spicy is the dressing?
It’s mildly spicy as written, but you can adjust the heat level with more or less sriracha.

What’s the best substitute for rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch, though the flavor will slightly change.

Can I freeze the salad?
No, this salad does not freeze well due to its fresh, crisp components.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, for added texture in the dressing.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes, especially if you go light on the spice.

Can I double the dressing?
Definitely—it stores well in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Conclusion

Thai Crunch Salad with Citrus Peanut Dressing is a bright, flavorful dish that brings together crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and satisfying crunch. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, meal prep option, or a colorful side for dinner, this salad delivers on all fronts with its balance of freshness and bold taste.