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Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad

Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad: A Colorful Taste of Thailand

Discover the vibrant and nutritious Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad, a deliciously healthy meal prepared in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup quinoa rinse well to remove bitterness
  • 1 medium red bell pepper substitute with yellow or orange for variety
  • 1 medium cucumber zucchini can be used for a lovely crunch
  • 1 cup shredded carrots shredded or julienned works beautifully
  • 2 stalks green onions slice thinly
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro parsley is a good alternative if necessary
  • ½ cup chopped peanuts consider sunflower seeds for a nut-free option
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds omit if desired
For the Dressing
  • ¼ cup soy sauce opt for gluten-free tamari if needed
  • 1 medium lime juice can swap with lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey maple syrup can be a vegan alternative
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil olive oil works if you prefer something milder
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger ground ginger can be a quick substitute
  • 1 clove garlic fresh garlic is recommended
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • small bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let cool.
  2. Chop red bell pepper, cucumber, and shredded carrots into bite-sized pieces. Slice green onions and chop cilantro. Combine all veggies in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.
  4. Fluff cooled quinoa with a fork and add to mixed veggies. Toss in chopped peanuts and sesame seeds, then pour dressing over and mix until well coated.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Rinsing quinoa is crucial to remove bitterness. Chill before serving for the best flavor experience.

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