Name: Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad: Crunchy, Spicy Spring Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sugar snap peas (Snow peas can be substituted.); 1 cup Frozen edamame (Blanch in salted water.); 2 pcs Scallions (Chopped.); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Can be substituted with basil or parsley.); 2 tbsp Chili crisp (Hot sauce can be a substitute.); 1 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup can be used for a vegan alternative.); 1 in Fresh ginger (Grated, fresh ginger is key.); 1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds (Optional for nut-free version.); 2 tbsp Lemon juice (Rice wine vinegar can be an alternative.); 2 tbsp Sesame oil (Avocado or grapeseed oil for sesame allergy.)

As I was savoring the last bites of a spring picnic, a bright and crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad danced into my thoughts. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it invites you with the crispness of fresh snap peas and the gentle kick of chili crisp, striking a perfect balance of zest and sweetness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its quick prep time and vibrant flavor profile, making it a fantastic choice for those warm days when you crave something light yet hearty. Whether you serve it on its own or as a delightful side to grilled chicken, this salad is bound to elevate any meal. Ready to bring spring to your table? Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this refreshing dish together!

Why try this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?

Vibrant Colors: This salad is a visual delight, showcasing the bright green of snap peas and the fresh tones of scallions and cilantro.

Quick to Prepare: Get this dish on the table in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Unique Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet honey and spicy chili crisp elevates the traditional salad experience to something extraordinary.

Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled proteins like teriyaki salmon or crispy tofu for added heartiness.

Nutrient-Packed: Packed with fiber and protein, this salad caters to vegetarian and gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can indulge!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Sugar snap peas – A crunchy base for the salad; if not available, snow peas make a great substitute.
Frozen edamame – Provides both texture and protein; blanch these in salted water for the best results.
Scallions – These add a mild onion flavor and a touch of freshness.
Cilantro – Offers a refreshing herbal note; swap it out for basil or parsley if desired.

For the Dressing

Chili crisp – This ingredient delivers a spicy kick and adds depth; hot sauce can work for a similar heat if you’re in a pinch.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing to balance flavors; maple syrup makes for a wonderful vegan alternative.
Fresh ginger – Enhances the dressing with a zing; remember that using fresh ginger is key for optimal flavor.
Toasted sesame seeds – Adds nuttiness and crunch; feel free to omit if you’re making a nut-free version.
Lemon juice – Provides acidity and brightness; rice wine vinegar can be used as an alternative.
Sesame oil – Binds the dressing and gives it richness; for a sesame allergy, avocado or grapeseed oil serves as a good substitute.

Assembly Tips

Mix the salad just before serving to maintain its crunch; keep the dressing separate if possible until you’re ready to enjoy this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Step 1: Blanch Edamame
Start by bringing a medium pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of kosher salt and the frozen edamame. Blanch for about 3 minutes, until they turn bright green and tender but still firm. Drain the edamame in a colander and immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prep Snap Peas and Greens
Next, wash the sugar snap peas thoroughly under cold running water. Thinly slice them on a bias to enhance their visual appeal and texture. In a large bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, blanched edamame, chopped scallions, and cilantro. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the mixture to brighten the flavors, then gently toss everything together to ensure an even coating. Set this vibrant salad mixture aside.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a heat-proof bowl, combine toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat until it shimmers, which should take around 1-2 minutes. Carefully pour the hot oil over the aromatics in the bowl, allowing the ingredients to “flash-cook” and release their flavors. Stir everything together until well mixed, creating a beautifully melded dressing for your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 4: Combine
Finally, pour the fragrant dressing over the salad mixture. Season with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Using tongs or your hands, gently toss the salad until everything is well coated in the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired, ensuring a balance of spicy and sweet. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!

Protein Boost: Top your salad with grilled teriyaki chicken or crispy tofu for an extra hearty meal.
Colorful Crunch: Add vibrant bell peppers or crunchy cucumbers to enhance both texture and color.
Vinaigrette Swap: Prefer milder flavors? Swap the chili crisp dressing for a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.
Herb Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, basil or parsley can work wonders for an unexpected flavor profile.
Nut-Free Option: Omit toasted sesame seeds and increase flavor with additional herbs to keep the crunch intact.
Spice Level: For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Citrusy Zest: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist that brightens the dish even further.
Fusion Flavor: Mix in some Asian-inspired ingredients, like pickled ginger or avocado, for a unique take on this classic salad.

Looking for more salad ideas? Check out our vibrant recipes like Thai Cucumber Salad or Vibrant Celery Salad with Dates & Pistachios to keep your meals exciting!

What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Elevate your dining experience with delightful complementary dishes that enhance the fresh, vibrant flavors of your salad.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: The sweet and savory notes of teriyaki chicken perfectly contrast with the crunchy freshness of the salad, creating a balanced meal.
Coconut Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice infused with coconut milk adds a creamy texture, soak up the dressing beautifully, and amplifies the tropical vibes of spring.
Crispy Tofu Bites: A vegan option that adds a hearty protein to the meal while keeping all flavors bright and fresh, it pairs enchanting with the spicy salad.
Roasted Bell Peppers: The natural sweetness of roasted peppers complements the chili crisp’s heat, yielding a deliciously colorful platter that’s irresistible.
Lemon-infused Quinoa: Light and nutritious, quinoa adds a nutty flavor that harmoniously merges with the zesty salad without overpowering it.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: For a refreshing starter, this cool soup balances the spice of the salad, keeping the meal light and uplifting.

Indulging in these pairings not only enhances the flavors on your plate but also captures the essence of a beautiful spring meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can blanch the edamame and slice the snap peas up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. Additionally, you can prepare the dressing and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just give it a quick shake before using to recombine any ingredients. To keep the salad fresh, combine all components—salad, dressing, and herbs—just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a bright and crunchy salad that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Prep Ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance and keep them separate until serving to maintain freshness and crunch in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Freshness Matters: Always use fresh ginger for your dressing; it brightens flavors. Dried ginger doesn’t pack the same punch.

Balancing Act: Adjust honey and chili crisp to your taste; too much heat can overpower the dish, so start with a smaller amount of chili crisp.

Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent sogginess, only dress the salad right before you’re ready to serve it; this keeps all ingredients crisp and flavorful.

Customize It: Feel free to add in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and flair, making your chili crisp snap pea salad even more delightful!

Watch the Heat: When heating sesame oil for the dressing, keep an eye on the temperature—too hot and it may burn, affecting the overall flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fridge: Store the dressed salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. However, for best texture, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.

Leftovers: If you have leftover undressed salad, it can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freezing the salad is not recommended due to its fresh ingredients, particularly snap peas and edamame, which lose their crunch once thawed.

Reheating: If you opt to heat leftovers, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your fresh and zesty Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe snap peas for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for snap peas that are vibrant green and feel crisp to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh snap peas should snap easily when bent, which is a sign of their crunchiness.

How can I store leftover Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. If you want to preserve the crispness, consider keeping the dressing separate and only mixing it in just before you’re ready to enjoy the salad.

Can I freeze the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Unfortunately, freezing this salad is not recommended. The fresh ingredients, particularly snap peas and edamame, lose their delightful crunch once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh! If you have any dressing left over, it can be stored in the fridge for about a week.

What should I do if my dressing is too spicy?
No worries! If your dressing turned out spicier than expected, simply add more honey to balance the heat. Alternatively, you can mix in a bit of lemon juice or rice vinegar to mellow the flavor. Start by adding small increments, taste-testing until you achieve your desired heat level.

Are there any allergy considerations for this salad?
Yes, it’s important to be mindful of dietary restrictions. If you’re making this salad for someone with a sesame allergy, you can substitute sesame oil with avocado oil or grapeseed oil. Additionally, ensure any sauces or toppings (like chili crisp) are gluten-free if necessary.

How can I make this salad more filling?
The more the merrier! To transform your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad into a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or crispy tofu on top. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added nutrition and flavor!