Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Quinoa
- Combine rinsed quinoa and water/broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and spread on a plate to cool completely.
Make Crispy Chickpeas (Air Fryer)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, toss the drained, rinsed, and thoroughly patted dry chickpeas with olive oil, curry powder, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables
- While quinoa and chickpeas are cooking/cooling, prepare all the vegetables and herbs: thinly slice red cabbage, shred carrots, julienne red bell pepper, cook edamame if not pre-cooked, and chop cilantro and mint.
Make the Peanut-Lime Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using).
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired pourable consistency.
Assemble the Thai Quinoa Crunch Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, red cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, and edamame.
- Pour the peanut-lime dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Fold in the chopped fresh cilantro and mint.
- Divide the salad among serving bowls. Top each serving generously with the crispy chickpeas, chopped peanuts, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best crunch, add chickpeas and nuts just before serving.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber, green onions, or shredded radish. For extra protein, grilled chicken or tofu would be a great addition.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and omit peanuts, or use toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for crunch.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber, green onions, or shredded radish. For extra protein, grilled chicken or tofu would be a great addition.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and omit peanuts, or use toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for crunch.
