High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Introduction
The High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad is a delicious blend of flavors and textures. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a zingy dressing, it’s not just a meal but a celebration of healthy eating. This salad makes it easy to enjoy nutritious food without sacrificing taste.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it is not only healthy but also very filling. Quinoa is a fantastic source of protein, and when combined with vegetables and a tasty dressing, it turns into a dish that keeps you satisfied. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s colorful, which makes it appealing to eat!
How to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
Making the High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad is simple and quick. Here’s how you can prepare this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled and 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 the desired consistency is reached.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the quinoa, cabbage, carrots, edamame, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and chicken or tofu.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- If you like, garnish with chopped peanuts.
- Serve 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’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep. If you want, you can enjoy it right away or let it sit for a little while in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.
How to Store High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
To store this salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you expect to have leftovers, you might want to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the vegetables will stay crisp!
Tips to Make High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad
- Make sure the quinoa is thoroughly cooked and cooled before adding it to the salad.
- Feel free to add more vegetables if you have favorites on hand.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some chopped chili or a bit of sriracha to the dressing.
- Using fresh herbs like mint or basil can enhance the flavor even more.
Variation
You can easily adapt this salad to your tastes. If you want a vegetarian version, you can leave out the chicken and add chickpeas instead. You can also swap the peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate if you want the vegetables to stay crisp.
Q2: Is quinoa gluten-free?
A2: Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q3: What can I substitute for edamame?
A3: If you can’t find edamame, you can replace it with green peas or even black beans for added protein.
Q4: How do I make it vegan?
A4: Simply use tofu instead of chicken and ensure that the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar for a completely vegan dish.
Enjoy preparing and savoring this tasty High Protein Thai Quinoa Salad! It’s a great way to nourish yourself with wholesome ingredients all while enjoying great flavors.
