Easy Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews Recipe

Discover a vibrant Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews recipe packed with fresh veggies, crunchy cashews, and zesty apple cider vinegar dressing. This colorful and nutritious salad balances crisp textures with bold flavors, making it a perfect light lunch or side dish anyone can enjoy. With wholesome ingredients and easy steps, this dish brings a refreshing twist on a classic Thai-inspired salad that you will want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables creates an exciting taste in every bite.
• Protein-Packed: Quinoa and cashews add a satisfying source of plant-based protein that keeps you energized.
• Quick and Easy: Ready to prepare in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Colorful and Inviting: Bright veggies like bell peppers and carrots make this salad as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adjustable to suit dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet powerful ingredients come together to create a wonderfully balanced salad. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s adding crunch, freshness, or a satisfying layer of flavor.

• Quinoa: A fluffy, protein-rich grain that forms the hearty base of the salad.
• Cashews: Toasted for added crunch and a subtle nutty taste.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• Carrots: Shredded to bring natural sweetness and texture.
• Green Onions: Provide a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
• Cilantro: Fresh and herbaceous, giving a distinct Thai-inspired aroma.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The zesty and tangy dressing base that balances flavors.
• Light Soy Sauce: Adds just the right touch of umami without overpowering.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A hint of natural sweetness to round out the dressing.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Gives an extra burst of citrus brightness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a gentle spicy kick.

Variations for Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews

This recipe is a fantastic blank canvas, ready for your personal touch. Whether you want to adapt it for different tastes or dietary needs, it’s easy to tweak while keeping the delicious core intact.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or smoked turkey slices for a heartier meal.
• Veggie Swap: Use cucumber, snap peas, or shredded cabbage instead of bell peppers for variety.
• Nut Alternatives: Substitute cashews with almonds or walnuts if preferred.
• Vegan Dressing: Replace honey with maple syrup to keep it plant-based.
• Spice Level: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.

How to Make Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness, then combine with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, fresh juice from one lime, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if using. Set aside to let flavors meld.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables and Herbs

Dice one red bell pepper, shred two medium carrots, and thinly slice 3 green onions. Finely chop a handful of cilantro, ensuring everything is bite-sized for easy mixing and eating.

Step 4: Toast the Cashews

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/2 cup of cashews until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This step boosts their flavor and crunch.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, gently mix the cooled quinoa, prepared veggies, chopped cilantro, and toasted cashews. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss well to evenly coat everything with the zesty, tangy flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews is now ready to serve fresh. Enjoy immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors deepen before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews

• Rinse Quinoa: Washing quinoa prior to cooking removes natural bitterness for a cleaner taste.
• Cool Quinoa Fully: Ensure quinoa cools completely before adding dressing to avoid sogginess.
• Toast Nuts Carefully: Toast cashews on medium heat and keep stirring to prevent burning.
• Adjust Dressing: Taste and tweak the apple cider vinegar and honey balance to your preferred tanginess and sweetness.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro makes a big difference in flavor avoid dried substitutes.

How to Serve Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and sliced green onions on top before serving for vibrant color and added freshness. A few more toasted cashews on top bring delightful crunch with every bite.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled smoked turkey slices or lightly roasted vegetables. For a light meal, pair it with steamed jasmine rice or a simple vegetable stir-fry to keep the Thai-inspired theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches or plate it over fresh lettuce leaves for a beautiful, edible bowl. Adding edible flowers or lime wedges instantly elevates presentation if entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain maximum crunch and freshness.

Freezing

Quinoa can be frozen but the fresh vegetables and cashews do not freeze well. It’s best to prepare the quinoa in advance and add fresh ingredients just before serving.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to gently warm the quinoa, reheat separately before mixing with salads and nuts to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even peanuts work wonderfully in this salad, just remember to toast them lightly for the best flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, swap honey for maple syrup in the dressing to keep it fully plant-based without losing any sweetness or zing.

How long does the salad keep its freshness?

When stored properly in the fridge, it stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.

Can I substitute quinoa with rice or couscous?

Certainly. Cooked jasmine rice or couscous can be used as an alternative, though quinoa provides more protein and a unique texture.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

Simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes from the dressing or use a milder chili powder to tone down the heat.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Quinoa Salad with Cashews is one of those recipes that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s fresh, fulfilling, and bursting with layers of flavor that come together so effortlessly. Whether you’re searching for a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a dish perfect for sharing, this salad is a must-try. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!

Related Posts

• How to Make Tomato Soup in 5 Easy Steps
• Why Healthy Zuppa Toscana is a Must-Try
• Irresistible Chicken Cordon Bleu Sliders Recipe

Print