High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Introduction
High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together a mix of colorful vegetables, protein, and a creamy dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a main meal, this salad is sure to please anyone looking for a healthy yet delicious option. With its blend of flavors and textures, it makes for a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is packed with protein from quinoa and your choice of chicken or chickpeas, making it a filling option. The fresh vegetables add crunch and nutrition, while the peanut dressing gives it a delightful flavor. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great choice for meal prep. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste preferences!
How to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews (optional, for crunch)
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast or chickpeas (for plant-based option)
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1–2 tablespoons warm water, to thin
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth and pourable. Add more warm water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, edamame, green onions, cilantro, and your choice of protein (chicken or chickpeas).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- If using, garnish with roasted peanuts or cashews.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
You can serve this salad as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a filling lunch or dinner. For extra crunch, consider topping it with some crushed nuts just before serving.
How to Store High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
This salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, add the dressing just before serving. The veggies will stay crisp, and the flavors will remain bright.
Tips to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
- Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove bitterness.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- For added spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
- Make sure the dressing is at your preferred thickness; adjust with warm water as needed.
Variation
For a different flavor, try using tahini instead of peanut butter, or add fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist. You can also substitute different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of quinoa for this recipe?
Yes, you can use white, red, or black quinoa. Each variety has a slightly different flavor and texture, but they all work well.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce.
3. How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply use chickpeas instead of chicken, and replace honey with maple syrup for a completely plant-based dish.
With this straightforward recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad that fits well into any healthy eating plan. Enjoy your cooking!
