Name: Thai Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1 red bell pepper; 1 carrot; 1 English cucumber; 1 cup edamame; 6 green onions; 1-2 cups red cabbage; 2 cups baby kale; 2 tablespoons basil; fresh limes; 4 teaspoons fish sauce; 6 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons lime zest; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon ginger; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; red pepper flakes

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I absolutely love vibrant and refreshing dishes, and that’s why the Thai Quinoa Salad holds a special place on my table. Imagine a sunny afternoon, the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the air as I prepare this delightful salad. It’s one of those recipes that brings together my favorite flavors, combining the nutty essence of quinoa with the crunchy textures of fresh vegetables. When summer rolls around, this salad becomes my go-to dish for picnics and gatherings, providing a burst of color and taste that everyone raves about. For me, the Thai Quinoa Salad isn’t just food—it’s an experience that transports me to a sunny Thai beach, enjoying life with friends and family.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Grater

Why This Thai Quinoa Salad Stands Out

There are countless reasons to adore the Thai Quinoa Salad. Here are just a few that come to mind:

1. Nutritious Powerhouse

Quinoa is packed with protein, making this salad not just light but also filling and nutritious. It’s gluten-free, high in fiber, and offers essential amino acids that our bodies crave. The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and kale brings in a slew of vitamins and minerals, creating a complete meal in a bowl.

2. Versatile and Customizable

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have at home or what’s in season. Not a fan of edamame? No problem! Toss in some chickpeas or even grilled chicken for extra protein. The recipe is a template for creativity, allowing you to make it your own.

3. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant dressing that elevates the salad to something extraordinary. Each bite explodes with flavors that dance on your taste buds, making it hard to stop at just one serving.

4. Meal Prep Dream

The Thai Quinoa Salad is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for a few days, allowing you to prepare ahead of time for busy weeks. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy, and you’ll have a quick, healthy meal at your fingertips.

5. Refreshing Summer Dish

When the temperatures rise, heavy meals can be a drag. This salad is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for those hot summer days. It’s refreshing and keeps you feeling energized rather than weighed down.

6. Great for Entertaining

If you’re hosting a gathering, the Thai Quinoa Salad is sure to impress your guests. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet, and watch everyone come back for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a splash of color to your table.

What You’ll Need for Thai Quinoa Salad

Creating the perfect Thai Quinoa Salad starts with fresh, vibrant ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component adds its unique texture and flavor, creating a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s a look at what you’ll need to bring this salad to life:

1 cup uncooked quinoa – The base of our salad, packed with protein and a nutty flavor.
1 chopped red bell pepper – For a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
1 shredded carrot – Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of orange.
1 chopped English cucumber – Provides a refreshing crunch.
1 cup edamame – A great source of plant protein and a nutty taste.
6 thinly sliced green onions – For a hint of sharpness and freshness.
1-2 cups shredded red cabbage – Adds texture and a vibrant hue.
2 cups coarsely chopped baby kale – For a nutrient boost and hearty leaves.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil – Imparts a lovely aromatic flavor.
Fresh limes – To squeeze over the top for brightness.
4 teaspoons fish sauce – The umami flavor that ties everything together.
6 tablespoons lime juice – For acidity and flavor.
2 teaspoons lime zest – To enhance the citrus notes.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Balances the flavors perfectly.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps to meld the flavors in the dressing.
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger – Infuses a warm, spicy note.
1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty richness.
Pinch of red pepper flakes – For a subtle kick of heat.

Recipe Steps for Thai Quinoa Salad

Making the Thai Quinoa Salad is a breeze, and I love how quickly everything comes together. Let’s dive into the process! Follow these simple steps for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Start by preparing the quinoa. Rinse 1 cup uncooked quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 15 minutes, adding a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Once cooked, let it cool completely in a large bowl in the fridge.
While the quinoa is cooling, let’s make the dressing. In a mason jar, combine 4 teaspoons fish sauce, 6 tablespoons lime juice, 2 teaspoons lime zest, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust it based on your preference.
Once the quinoa has cooled, it’s time to add all the delicious vegetables. Toss in 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 shredded carrot, 1 chopped English cucumber, 1 cup edamame, 6 thinly sliced green onions, 1-2 cups shredded red cabbage, 2 cups coarsely chopped baby kale, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mix. Use tongs to gently toss everything together, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. The colors will start to pop, and the aroma will be irresistible!
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial, as it enhances the taste of the Thai Quinoa Salad.
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a final toss. You can garnish with extra fresh limes on the side for those who want a little more citrus kick.
Enjoy your Thai Quinoa Salad fresh! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or you can serve it as a light lunch on its own.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove the natural saponins that can cause bitterness.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Adjusting Spice: Feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes if you enjoy extra spice.
Leftovers: This salad can last in the fridge for about three days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Helpful Notes about Thai Quinoa Salad

Here are some helpful notes to consider when making your Thai Quinoa Salad:

Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the fresh vegetables may become soggy upon thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled fish or chicken, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
Make Ahead: The salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Variations: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition!

Serve This Thai Quinoa Salad With

When it comes to serving the Thai Quinoa Salad, there are several delightful options to consider:

Grilled Chicken: This salad complements grilled chicken beautifully, making it a fantastic protein-packed meal.
Fish Tacos: A side of Thai Quinoa Salad adds a refreshing contrast to savory fish tacos.
Picnics: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, you can enjoy it as a light lunch or snack.
Seasonal Pairings: Try serving it with seasonal fruits like mango or avocado for a tropical twist.
Potlucks: Bring this salad to a potluck; it’s bound to be a hit!
Leftover Utilization: Use any leftover salad as a filling for a wrap or a topping for a grain bowl.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Thai Quinoa Salad is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the salad a day in advance, but I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This ensures the veggies stay crisp and fresh.

If you don’t have quinoa on hand or want to try something different, consider using farro or brown rice. Both provide a similar texture and can complement the other ingredients beautifully. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Yes, the Thai Quinoa Salad is gluten-free! Quinoa itself is a gluten-free grain, making this salad a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check the labels of any sauces you use, like fish sauce, to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Definitely! The Thai Quinoa Salad is versatile. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This addition will enhance the protein content and make the salad even more filling!

Conclusion

The Thai Quinoa Salad stands out as a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at a summer gathering, its vibrant flavors are sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how easy it is to whip up a delicious salad that everyone will love!