If you love fresh, vibrant flavors with a creamy peanut sauce, this Thai Pasta Salad is the perfect dish! Made with crunchy vegetables, tender pasta, and a protein-packed easy peanut sauce, this healthy pasta salad is vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for pasta salads for meal prep, a refreshing summer dish, or an easy salad pasta recipe, this Thai-inspired pasta salad delivers big flavor with simple, healthy ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Pasta Salad

Fresh & Crunchy – A delicious mix of crisp veggies, tender pasta, and creamy peanut dressing.
Protein-Packed & Vegan – Uses tofu, chickpeas, or edamame for plant-based protein.
Easy Peanut Sauce – A quick, creamy, and flavorful sauce made with peanut butter.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as a light lunch, BBQ side, or healthy dinner.

Ingredients for Thai Pasta Salad

For the Pasta Salad:

8 oz gluten-free pasta (or regular pasta, tortellini, or rice noodles)
1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
½ cup purple cabbage, shredded
½ cup edamame or chickpeas (for protein)
¼ cup green onions, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
¼ cup crushed peanuts (for topping)

For the Easy Peanut Sauce:

⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
¼ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this healthy Thai pasta salad, you’ll need:

Large pot for cooking pasta
Mixing bowls
Whisk (for peanut dressing)
Cutting board & knife

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Thai Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta or tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Easy Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, and sriracha.
Add water gradually, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, bell peppers, carrots, cucumber, cabbage, edamame, and green onions.
Pour the peanut sauce over the salad and toss to coat.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, and extra lime juice.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.
Enjoy as a main dish or side salad!

Expert Tips for the Best Thai Pasta Salad

Use rice noodles for an authentic Thai twist – Instead of regular pasta.
Make it extra crunchy – Add red cabbage, snap peas, or crushed cashews.
For extra protein – Add tofu, tempeh, grilled shrimp, or shredded chicken.
Adjust sauce consistency – Add more water for a thinner dressing or peanut butter for a thicker sauce.
Want more spice? – Add extra sriracha or chili flakes.

Fun Variations of Thai Pasta Salad

Spicy Thai Noodle Salad – Add extra sriracha and red pepper flakes.
Peanut-Free Version – Swap peanut butter for tahini or sunflower seed butter.
Thai Tortellini Salad – Use cheese or spinach tortellini instead of regular pasta.
Mango Thai Pasta Salad – Toss in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast.

How to Store & Keep Thai Pasta Salad Fresh

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Meal Prep Tip: Keep the peanut dressing separate and mix before serving.
Reheat or Eat Cold: Best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

Top with extra lime wedges and sesame seeds for a fresh touch.
Pair with fresh summer rolls or crispy tofu for a complete meal.
Serve in lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pasta Salad

Overcooking the pasta – Keep it slightly firm (al dente) so it doesn’t get mushy.
Not rinsing the pasta – Helps prevent sticking and cools it down.
Adding dressing too early – Toss before serving to keep it fresh.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Thai Pasta Salad

Grilled tofu or tempeh – Adds more plant-based protein.
Crispy spring rolls – A delicious side for a Thai-inspired meal.
Miso soup or coconut soup – Complements the nutty flavors.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this Thai pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and add dressing before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great substitutes.

3. What’s the best gluten-free pasta for this salad?
Rice noodles, chickpea pasta, or quinoa pasta work well.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Thai Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy dish packed with crunchy vegetables, creamy peanut sauce, and hearty pasta. Whether you need a meal-prep salad, a summer BBQ side, or a satisfying plant-based dinner, this recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor!

Try this healthy pasta salad recipe today and share your results! Tag us on social media and subscribe for more easy salad pasta and Thai-inspired recipes!