Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is a delightful dish that combines textures and flavors in a vibrant way. This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a unique spin on traditional rice dishes. With golden fried jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy peanut-chili dressing, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
• Flavorful & Fresh: The combination of crispy rice and zesty dressing delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with edamame and fresh veggies, this salad is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your preference.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Enjoy a fully vegan meal that’s rich in protein and healthy fats.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing, you’ll need some basic tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking tray or air fryer
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all your fresh ingredients without spilling.
• Baking tray or air fryer: Essential for achieving perfectly crispy rice without frying in oil.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together the dressing ingredients to ensure a creamy consistency.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate all dressing components smoothly, making it easy to adjust flavors.

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. Shelled edamame
2. Diced avocado
3. Thinly sliced cucumber
4. Thinly sliced red bell pepper
5. Thinly sliced spring onions
6. Chopped coriander
7. Roughly chopped dill

Step 2: Make Crispy Chili Rice

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

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine creamy peanut butter, minced garlic, Sriracha (if using), rice vinegar, soy sauce, and enough water to reach your desired pourable consistency.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning for heat or tang as needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Pour the peanut-chili dressing over the prepared salad ingredients. Top with warm crispy rice and gently toss everything together until well combined. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top and finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil or Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture!

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways to elevate your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade for a perfect midday meal.
• Serve it alongside whole grain pita bread to add a healthy carbohydrate option.

As a Dinner Side

• Complement the salad with grilled chicken or turkey for an extra protein boost.
• Offer it as a side dish with Asian-inspired entrees like teriyaki chicken or grilled vegetables.

For Meal Prep

• Store individual portions in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Layer the salad ingredients in jars, keeping the dressing separate to maintain freshness until serving.

How to Perfect Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

To achieve an exceptional Crispy Rice Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use day-old rice: This helps achieve better texture and prevents clumping when frying.
• Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of chili oil and Sriracha based on your spice preference.
• Add crunch: Incorporate other crunchy veggies like carrots or radishes for added texture and flavor.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can enhance the flavor profile and presentation of your dish.
• Experiment with nuts: Substitute crushed peanuts with cashews or sunflower seeds for a different taste experience.

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

Enhance your meal by pairing this salad with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices, perfect for adding protein alongside your salad.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh and crunchy rolls filled with vegetables, providing a light and crispy contrast.
3. Miso Soup: A warm, savory soup that complements the flavors in the salad beautifully.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A quick sautéed vegetable that adds color and nutrients to your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A tangy and refreshing cucumber salad that enhances the overall freshness of your dining experience.
6. Fruit Salad: A sweet ending to balance the spiciness of the salad, featuring seasonal fruits for added nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a crispy rice salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delightful dish.

• Ignoring Rice Texture: Using undercooked or overcooked rice can ruin the salad’s crispiness. Ensure your jasmine rice is cooked and cooled properly before baking.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Omitting cilantro or dill will reduce flavor complexity. Always include fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat for optimal results when baking the rice.
• Neglecting Spice Levels: Some may overlook personal spice preferences. Adjust chili oil and Sriracha based on your heat tolerance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within one month for optimal taste.

Reheating Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about making the Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing? Here are some answers!

What makes this Crispy Rice Salad unique?

This salad combines crispy fried rice with fresh vegetables and a creamy peanut-chili dressing, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or swap out edamame for chickpeas for different protein options.

How spicy is the Peanut-Chili Dressing?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you choose to add. Start with less and adjust according to your preference.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The total time is around 20 minutes, including both preparation and cooking time, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is vibrant, flavorful, and adaptable to various tastes. Enjoy its crunchiness paired with creamy dressing, which makes it perfect as a main dish or side salad. Don’t hesitate to customize it further by adding your favorite veggies or toppings!