Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is a delightful dish that combines textures and flavors into a vibrant meal. This salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at gatherings. With golden fried jasmine rice, protein-packed edamame, and a creamy peanut-chili dressing, it stands out as a nutritious and satisfying option. Enjoy the bright colors and fresh ingredients that make this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this salad is ideal for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chili oil creates a rich dressing that adds depth to your meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and protein-rich edamame, this salad supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• 100% Plant-Based: This recipe is vegan-friendly, making it suitable for diverse dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for whisking
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Allows even cooking of the rice, ensuring it becomes crispy without burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all salad ingredients without spills.
• Small bowl for whisking: Perfect for mixing the dressing smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

This vibrant vegan Crispy Rice Salad brings together golden fried jasmine rice, protein-packed edamame, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a bold and creamy peanut-chili dressing. It’s crunchy, spicy, fresh—and 100% plant-based!

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1-2 tbsp chili oil (or neutral oil if you prefer less heat)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed if frozen)
• 1 ripe avocado (diced)
• 1 English cucumber (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced or diced)
• 3 spring onions (thinly sliced – white + green parts)
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander (cilantro) (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh dill (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
• Optional: extra chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for more heat

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• 1-3 garlic cloves (minced to taste)
• 1-2 tsp Sriracha (optional – omit or reduce for milder)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2-4 tbsp water (to thin)

How to Make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Step 1: Prep the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Edamame
2. Avocado
3. Cucumber
4. Red bell pepper
5. Spring onions
6. Coriander
7. Dill

Step 2: Make Crispy Chili Rice

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Spread the cooked rice on a baking tray:
1. Drizzle with chili oil (or neutral oil).
2. Add soy sauce and toss to coat.
3. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring at 10 and 15 minutes until the rice is deep golden and crisp.
– Alternatively, air-fry at 400 °F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Peanut butter
2. Minced garlic
3. Sriracha (optional)
4. Rice vinegar
5. Soy sauce
6. Enough water to reach a pourable consistency.

Taste and adjust for heat or salt per preference.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad mix:
1. Top with warm crispy rice.
2. Gently toss everything together.
3. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top.
4. Finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil or Sriracha if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing!

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you want a light lunch or a festive dinner, this salad offers endless possibilities for enjoyment.

As a Standalone Lunch

• This salad is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, making it perfect for a quick and nutritious lunch.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions as appetizers at gatherings. The vibrant colors and flavors will impress your guests.

With Extra Protein

• Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein. This enhances the meal while maintaining the fresh flavors of the salad.

Over a Bed of Greens

• For a refreshing twist, serve the crispy rice salad over mixed greens. It adds volume and nutrients without overshadowing the dish.

Wrap It Up

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with this salad. It’s fun to eat and adds a different texture.

How to Perfect Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

To ensure your Crispy Rice Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers enhance flavor and crunch.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by varying the amount of chili oil or Sriracha according to your taste.
• Bake for Crispiness: Ensure the rice is spread evenly on the baking tray for maximum crispiness while baking.
• Whisk Thoroughly: When making the dressing, whisk until smooth to avoid clumps in your peanut-chili mixture.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after assembling so that the crispy rice stays crunchy.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like mint or basil for varied flavor profiles that complement the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Rice Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Veggies: Charred seasonal vegetables add smokiness and depth to complement the salad’s fresh flavors.
2. Edamame Hummus: This creamy dip is packed with protein and makes for a great accompaniment with pita chips or fresh veggies.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the crispness of the salad.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances out the spiciness of the dish, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs can enhance your meal while keeping it nutritious.
6. Chilled Cucumber Soup: Refreshingly cool, this soup complements the crunch of your salad while adding more veggies to your plate.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of spicy rice salad.
8. Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls filled with veggies offer another layer of texture and flavor alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Rice: If you overcook the jasmine rice, it can become mushy. Make sure the rice is fluffy and fully cooked before using it in the salad.
• Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your oven might lead to uneven cooking of the rice. Always preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for optimal crispiness.
• Not Tasting the Dressing: Failing to taste the dressing before adding it to the salad can result in an unbalanced flavor. Adjust seasoning and spice level according to your preference.
• Using Frozen Edamame Without Thawing: Adding frozen edamame directly into the salad can cool down the dish. Always thaw edamame first for better texture and flavor.
• Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like coriander and dill add essential flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients; they make a big difference in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• How long: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use glass or plastic containers that seal well to maintain freshness.

Freezing Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

• How long: Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread rice on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing healthy?

This salad is packed with nutrients from edamame, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from avocado and peanuts, making it a balanced meal.

Can I customize the Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers or switch up the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The salad stores well in the fridge and can be made ahead of time. Just keep the crispy rice separate until serving.

How spicy is the peanut-chili dressing?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you use. You can adjust it according to your liking by adding more or less chili oil or Sriracha.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is an exciting combination of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. It’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner and allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try it out today!