Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant meal that’s quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is one of my absolute favorites. It combines golden fried jasmine rice with protein-packed edamame, creamy avocado, and a rainbow of crunchy veggies. Tossed together with a bold peanut-chili dressing, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It truly has something for everyone!

What makes this dish even more special is how customizable it is. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or make it the star of your dinner table. No matter the occasion, you’ll find that this crispy rice salad hits all the right notes—crunchy, spicy, and oh-so-fresh!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fun textures and flavors in this salad!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for an easy assembly on busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The peanut-chili dressing adds a delightful kick that brings everything together beautifully.
• 100% Plant-Based: Enjoy a hearty meal that’s entirely vegan without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in harmony. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing.

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1-2 tbsp chili oil (or neutral oil, if you prefer less heat)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed if frozen)
• 1 ripe avocado (diced)
• 1 English cucumber (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced or diced)
• 3 spring onions (thinly sliced; white + green parts)
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander (cilantro) (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh dill (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
• Optional: extra chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for more heat

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• 1-3 garlic cloves (minced; to taste)
• 1-2 tsp Sriracha (optional – omit or reduce for milder)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2-4 tbsp water (to thin)

Variations

This Crispy Rice Salad is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in any seasonal veggies you love—think shredded carrots or snap peas for extra crunch!
• Swap the Protein: Try using chickpeas or black beans instead of edamame for a different flavor profile.
• Change Up the Grains: Use quinoa or farro instead of jasmine rice for a unique twist on texture and taste.
• Make it Zesty: Add in lime juice or zest for an extra burst of freshness!

How to Make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Step 1: Prep the Salad

Start by preparing all your fresh ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the edamame, avocado, cucumber, red bell pepper, spring onions, coriander, and dill. Mixing these colorful veggies not only creates an appealing presentation but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Make Crispy Chili Rice

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Spread the cooked jasmine rice on a baking tray and drizzle it with chili oil and soy sauce. Toss it well to coat every grain. Bake for about 20 minutes until deep golden and crisp—stirring halfway through helps achieve that perfect crunch! If you’re short on time, feel free to air-fry at 400 °F for about 12–14 minutes.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

While your crispy rice bakes away in the oven, whisk together peanut butter, minced garlic, Sriracha (if using), rice vinegar, soy sauce, and enough water until you reach your desired consistency. Tasting as you go allows you to adjust heat levels and tanginess according to your preference.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once everything is ready, pour that luscious dressing over your veggie mixture. Top it off with the warm crispy rice and give it all a gentle toss. Finally, sprinkle crushed peanuts over the top and finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil or Sriracha if you like things spicy! Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing! It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Creating the perfect Crispy Rice Salad is all about mastering a few key techniques! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish and make it even more delightful.

• Use Day-Old Rice: If possible, use leftover rice from the day before. Cold rice has a firmer texture which helps achieve that crispy finish when baked or air-fried.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili oil and Sriracha in your dressing. This way, you can tailor the salad to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
• Don’t Skimp on Fresh Herbs: Fresh coriander and dill add an aromatic freshness that lifts the flavors of your salad. Be generous with them for a burst of vibrant taste!
• Keep it Warm: For a delightful contrast, serve the crispy rice warm over the cool salad ingredients. This warmth enhances the flavors and makes each bite comforting.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like shredded carrots or chickpeas. This flexibility allows you to create a version of this salad that suits your cravings!

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Presentation can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your meal! Here are some ideas for serving this vibrant salad beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the nutty flavor profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the flavors of the salad while adding comforting warmth and depth.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame dressing provides a crisp contrast and adds extra crunch.
• Crispy Tofu Bites: Air-fried or baked tofu cubes seasoned with soy sauce make for a protein-packed side that pairs beautifully with the salad’s textures.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with sesame oil offers a nutritious addition that balances out the richness of the peanut-chili dressing.

Enjoy your deliciously vibrant meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the crispy rice separate to maintain its crunchiness.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze the salad as fresh vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
• However, you can freeze portions of the crispy rice in an airtight container for up to a month.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For reheating frozen crispy rice, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 400 °F (200 °C) until hot and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish to reheat it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, but be mindful that it might lose its crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise while preparing this delightful salad.

Can I make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the chopped vegetables and dressing in advance. Just keep them stored separately until you’re ready to serve. Add the crispy rice just before serving for optimal texture.

What can I use instead of edamame in Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing?

If you can’t find edamame, feel free to substitute with cooked chickpeas or black beans for added protein. Both options will complement the flavors beautifully!

How spicy is the Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing?

The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with less chili oil and Sriracha, then gradually add more if you like it spicier.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile—feel free to include your favorite veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to make it even more colorful and nutritious.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This salad stores well when components are prepared separately, allowing for easy assembly throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and satisfying Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing! It’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish both your body and soul. Whether it’s for lunch or dinner, this recipe shines on any table. Happy cooking, and remember to share your creations!