This Thai crunch salad is fresh, vibrant, and packed with irresistible texture. Crisp vegetables, bold Thai-inspired flavors, and a creamy peanut-style dressing come together in a chopped salad that feels light yet deeply satisfying—perfect for quick meals or colorful salad bowls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with crunch and fresh texture
- Bold, balanced flavors without heaviness
- Perfect for meal prep and salad bowls
- Naturally colorful and visually appealing
- Easy to customize with protein or noodles
Ingredients Overview
This Thai crunch salad recipe starts with shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for maximum crunch. Fresh herbs add brightness, while peanuts and a creamy peanut dressing bring depth and richness.
You can turn this into a Thai noodle salad by adding rice noodles, or keep it slaw-style for a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the vegetables
Thinly slice cabbage and chop all vegetables evenly for a clean, chopped texture.
2. Make the dressing
Whisk peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and sesame oil until smooth.
3. Toss the salad
Combine vegetables, herbs, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat.
4. Add crunch and serve
Top with peanuts or crispy toppings just before serving to keep everything crunchy.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Keep crunchy toppings separate until serving
- Slice vegetables thinly for restaurant-style texture
- Balance sweet, salty, and acidic flavors in the dressing
- Chill briefly before serving for best flavor
Variations & Add-Ins
- Crunchy Thai peanut salad: Add extra peanuts and dressing
- Thai slaw: Skip noodles and keep it veggie-forward
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu
- Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey
- Vietnamese-style: Add mint, basil, and extra lime
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Toss with dressing just before serving for the best crunch. Freezing is not recommended.
FAQ – Thai Crunch Salad
Is Thai crunch salad served cold?
Yes, it’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prep everything ahead and mix just before serving.
What makes this salad crunchy?
Fresh vegetables, peanuts, and optional crispy toppings.
Is this similar to restaurant Thai salads?
Yes, it’s inspired by Thai chopped salads with a homemade twist.
Printable Recipe Card
Thai Crunch Salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
Dressing
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Combine cabbage, carrots, pepper, cilantro, and green onions in a large bowl.
- Whisk all dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Toss salad with dressing until evenly coated.
- Top with peanuts and serve chilled.
Conclusion
This Thai crunch salad is crisp, colorful, and full of bold flavor. Enjoy it as a light main dish, a vibrant side, or a refreshing salad bowl base. Save this recipe and come back to it whenever you’re craving something fresh and crunchy.