There’s something invigorating about a dish that comes together with vibrant colors, textures, and tastes—especially when it’s served cold and packs a punch of spice. One such dish that hits all the right notes is the Chilled Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food yet dances with zesty brightness and creamy heat in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a potluck favorite, or a plant-based dinner that satisfies without weighing you down, this salad delivers. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this dish so special, from its simple, crisp ingredients to the addictive homemade dressing that pulls everything together.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
2 cups shredded green or red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cucumber, julienned
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 cup cooked and chilled rice noodles or soba noodles
1/4 cup crushed peanuts (for topping)
Optional: grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1–2 teaspoons sriracha (or to taste)
2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
Instructions
see continuation on next page
