Thai Crunch Salad + Citrus Peanut Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Crunch Salad with Citrus Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing dish full of crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a bold, creamy dressing. It’s colorful, satisfying, and packed with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty flavors—ideal for lunches, light dinners, or healthy gatherings.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
green cabbage (thinly sliced)red cabbage (thinly sliced)carrots (julienned or shredded)red bell pepper (thinly sliced)cucumber (thinly sliced)green onions (chopped)cilantro (chopped)peanuts (chopped)crispy wonton strips (optional)

Citrus Peanut Dressing:
peanut butterlime juicered wine vinegarhoney or maple syrupsoy saucegarlic clove (minced)ginger (grated)sesame oilorange juicewater (to thin)saltred pepper flakes (optional for heat)

directions

In a large bowl, combine sliced green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, orange juice, salt, and water to desired consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Top with chopped peanuts and crispy wonton strips just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
Swap peanut butter for almond butter if preferred.
Use napa cabbage for a softer crunch.
Top with edamame for a plant-based protein boost.

storage/reheating

Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Toss together just before serving to maintain the crunch.
The dressing can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Is it spicy?
The dressing is mild unless you add red pepper flakes.

Can I make it nut-free?
Use sunflower butter and omit peanuts.

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

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Yes, it’s a great time saver.

What other vegetables can I add?
Snap peas, radishes, or avocado are great additions.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I substitute the citrus?
Lemon juice works well if you don’t have orange.

How long does the dressing last?
Up to one week refrigerated in a sealed container.

What’s the best protein to add?
Grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken are all delicious options.

Conclusion

Thai Crunch Salad with Citrus Peanut Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Bursting with textures and bold flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for healthy meals that never feel boring—perfect for any day of the week!

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