Thai Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing

 A Thai Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful dish with a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors. Here's a recipe you can try:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

3 cups shredded cabbage (green and purple mix)

1 cup shredded carrots

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 cucumber, julienned

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup chopped peanuts (or cashews, optional)

1/2 cup edamame (optional, but adds protein)

For the Peanut Dressing:

1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)

2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp lime juice

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to sweetness)

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tsp grated ginger (optional for extra flavor)

1-2 tbsp water (to thin the dressing, as needed)

1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, green onions, peanuts, and edamame. Toss to mix evenly.

2. Make the Peanut Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and chili flakes. Add water a little at a time until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.

3. Toss the Salad: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the vegetables.

4. Serve: Garnish with extra chopped peanuts, cilantro, or lime wedges if desired.

This Thai Crunch Salad with Peanut Dressing is perfect for a fresh, light meal or as a side dish for any Asian-inspired meal!