High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish bursting with flavors and textures. It combines protein-rich quinoa with fresh vegetables, making it an excellent meal for lunch or dinner. This salad is not only colorful and tasty but also simple to prepare, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy healthy eating.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is packed with protein, especially if you choose to add chicken or tofu. Quinoa serves as a complete protein source, which is great for muscle building and recovery. The combination of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals to your diet while keeping the dish light and refreshing. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
How to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Making High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad is easy and fun! Here are the simple steps to prepare this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup edamame (shelled, cooked)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast or tofu, diced
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons water to thin
Directions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the Thai peanut dressing. Add water until you reach your desired consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, red cabbage, shredded carrots, edamame, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and chicken or tofu.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- If using, garnish with chopped peanuts before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Serve High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad as a main dish or as a side. It works great for lunch boxes or as a light dinner. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for extra protein.
How to Store High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you have added the peanuts, consider keeping them separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crunchiness.
Tips to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
- For added flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes before serving to let the dressing soak into the ingredients.
- Use a mix of colorful vegetables for a more visually appealing dish.
- You can always adjust the dressing ingredients to fit your taste. Add more lime juice for tang or more honey for sweetness.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. You can add cucumber, snap peas, or even mango for a tropical twist. For those who like a bit of spice, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store the dressing separately and mix it in when you are ready to serve.
2. Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to use shrimp, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein in place of chicken or tofu.
