Ring in the New Year with a vibrant and refreshing burst of flavor – our Vegan Thai Salad! This isn't your average salad; it's a symphony of textures and tastes, perfectly balancing sweet, sour, spicy, and savory notes. Imagine crisp vegetables, crunchy peanuts, and fragrant herbs mingling with a zesty lime dressing, all coming together in a harmonious explosion of deliciousness. This salad is not only incredibly satisfying but also incredibly healthy, packed with nutritious ingredients to fuel your body and kickstart your year with energy. It's the perfect light yet fulfilling dish for a celebratory meal or a healthy weeknight dinner.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this vegan Thai salad is surprisingly easy to make. The simple yet effective recipe provides a delicious and healthy option for both experienced cooks and those just starting their culinary journey. Ready to create this vibrant and flavorful dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Whisk
- Paper towel
Ingredients
- Tofu: 150 grams
- Rice powder: 1 tbsp
- Pepper
- Sea salt
- Sesame oil: 1.5 tbsp
- Spring onions
- Ginger: 2 tsp
- Garlic: 1 tsp
- Red chili (deseeded): 1
- Capsicum: ½
- Blanched carrots
- Peas
- Baby spinach leaves
- Unsalted, unsweetened peanut butter: 1.5 tbsp
- Maple syrup: 1.5 tsp
- Tamari sauce (or soy sauce)
- Coconut milk: ½ cup
- Rice vinegar: ½ tsp
- Lemon juice: ½ tsp
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ tsp
- Coriander
- Lettuce
- Toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tofu and Vegetables
- Press tofu to remove excess water and dust with rice powder, pepper, and salt. Add sesame oil and stir-fry until lightly browned, then blot with paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Stir-fry spring onions, ginger, garlic, chili, and capsicum in sesame oil.
- Add blanched carrots, peas, and baby spinach; stir-fry briefly, then season with salt.
Step 2. Make the Peanut Dressing
- Whisk together peanut butter, ginger paste, maple syrup, tamari (or soy sauce), coconut milk, rice vinegar, lemon juice, remaining chili, pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Add coriander to the dressing.
Step 3. Assemble the Salad
- Combine the tofu, stir-fried vegetables, and lettuce in a bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe
Tips
- Use a paper towel to absorb excess oil from the tofu after frying.
- Don't overcook the vegetables.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the salad components separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness. The dressing can be made a day ahead.
2. What can I substitute for peanuts?
Cashews, sunflower seeds, or even toasted pumpkin seeds make great substitutes for peanuts, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
3. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Start with less chili flakes or sriracha and add more to taste. You can also omit them entirely for a milder salad.
This vibrant Vegan Thai Salad is the perfect way to start the New Year with a healthy and flavorful bang. Its refreshing taste and simple preparation make it ideal for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory feast. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious salad, and happy New Year!