Quinoa Edamame Salad With Creamy Peanut Dressing

Looking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed salad that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Quinoa Edamame Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and all sorts of delicious, fresh ingredients. The quinoa adds a hearty base, while the edamame brings that delightful crunch, and the creamy peanut dressing ties everything together with its rich, savory goodness. If you’re craving a salad that’s as filling as it is refreshing, this one’s for you!

Why You’ll Love Quinoa Edamame Salad With Creamy Peanut Dressing

• Packed with Protein and Fiber: Between the quinoa and edamame, this salad will keep you feeling full and satisfied without any of the heaviness.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s a great make-ahead dish. The flavors only improve as it sits in the fridge, so it’s ideal for prepping in advance.
• Vibrant and Fresh: With colorful veggies and a zesty peanut dressing, this salad is as eye-catching as it is delicious.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Full of wholesome ingredients like edamame, quinoa, and fresh veggies, this salad makes a nourishing, well-balanced meal.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add some protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make it even heartier.

Ingredients in Quinoa Edamame Salad With Creamy Peanut Dressing

This salad comes together with a simple set of ingredients, but it delivers so much flavor and texture:

For the Salad:

• Quinoa: The perfect base, providing protein and a slightly nutty flavor.
• Edamame: These young soybeans are full of protein and give the salad a satisfying crunch.
• Carrots: Grated or julienned carrots add a burst of color and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Cucumber: A refreshing, crisp addition that gives the salad a cool crunch.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color and a bit of sweetness.
• Cilantro: A fresh herb that brightens up the flavors of the salad.

For the Creamy Peanut Dressing:

• Peanut Butter: Smooth, creamy peanut butter is the base of the dressing, bringing richness and flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami kick that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of tangy rice vinegar balances the richness of the peanut butter.
• Honey: A touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness to the dressing.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Lime Juice: Brightens up the dressing and brings a fresh citrusy note.
• Water: To thin the dressing to your desired consistency.
• Chili Flakes: Optional, but they add a nice touch of heat if you like things spicy.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this delicious quinoa salad? Let’s go!

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. Then, in a medium pot, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water (or broth for extra flavor). Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Let it cool down to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the quinoa is cooking, prep your veggies. Grate or julienne the carrots, chop the cucumber and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, and roughly chop the cilantro.

Step 3: Cook the Edamame

If you’re using frozen edamame, simply steam or boil them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and heated through. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Peanut Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, lime juice, and water. Adjust the water amount depending on how thick or thin you prefer the dressing. Add chili flakes if you want to add a little heat!

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, edamame, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, and cilantro. Drizzle the creamy peanut dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce, lime juice, or honey if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors marinate. This salad is perfect as a light meal, a side dish, or even a snack!

How to Serve Quinoa Edamame Salad With Creamy Peanut Dressing

• As a Light Meal: Enjoy this salad on its own for a filling, healthy lunch or dinner.
• With Grilled Chicken or Tofu: Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein to make it even more satisfying.
• As a Side: Serve it alongside grilled fish, shrimp, or other proteins for a complete meal.
• For Meal Prep: This salad is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch, store it in an airtight container, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add more chili flakes or even a drizzle of Sriracha to the dressing.
• Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts, cashews, or almonds on top.
• Substitute Veggies: Feel free to swap out any veggies you don’t have or don’t like. Broccoli, edamame, or even snap peas would all work well in this salad.
• Dressing Storage: The peanut dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great for drizzling on other salads, bowls, or stir-fries!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 670mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 8g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 12g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
A1: Yes! You can substitute quinoa with farro, couscous, or brown rice if you prefer a different grain.

Q2: Can I make the peanut dressing ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.

Q3: Can I make this salad gluten-free?
A3: Yes! Just make sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce for the dressing.

Q4: How can I make this salad vegan?
A4: The recipe is already vegan, so you’re good to go! If you want to add extra protein, consider adding tofu or tempeh.

Q5: Can I add fruit to this salad?
A5: Yes! Adding fruits like mango or apple slices would add a nice sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the salad.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dressing may make the salad a bit softer over time, but it will still be delicious!

Q7: Can I serve this warm?
A7: While this salad is typically served chilled or at room temperature, you could also serve it warm if you prefer. Just make sure to cool the quinoa slightly before mixing everything together.

Q8: Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
A8: Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, kale, or avocado for extra nutrients and flavor.

Q9: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
A9: Yes! If you have a peanut allergy or prefer almond butter, that’s a great substitute.

Q10: Can I use frozen edamame?
A10: Yes, frozen edamame works perfectly! Just steam or boil them for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.

Conclusion

This Quinoa Edamame Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing is a winner in every way! It’s packed with vibrant flavors, tons of nutrients, and a creamy dressing that’s out of this world. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a meal prep option, or a refreshing side dish, this salad is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to recipes! Enjoy!

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