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Thai Pasta Salad : Healthy Pasta Dish

If you love fresh, vibrant flavors with a creamy peanut sauce, this Thai Pasta Salad is the perfect dish!

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Make the Easy Peanut Sauce

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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

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

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

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

Notes

  • 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.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai Pasta Salad