Ingredients
Salad
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots, chopped for even distribution
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped or sliced green onion
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts or cashews (for topping)
Peanut Dressing
- 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 orange, juiced (or lime juice as alternative)
- 2.5 tablespoons low sodium gluten-free soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (seasoned or regular)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin dressing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop or shred the romaine lettuce and red cabbage. Chop the shredded carrots into smaller pieces to distribute evenly throughout the salad. Dice the red bell pepper and jalapeño finely after removing seeds and stems. Chop the green onions and cilantro (kitchen scissors work well). Combine all these chopped veggies and chickpeas in a large bowl and set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, fresh orange juice, maple syrup or honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, cayenne pepper (if using), and warm water. Whisk well until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the peanut dressing over the prepared salad. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the veggies and chickpeas evenly with the dressing. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or cashews over the top for a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant Thai Chickpea Salad!
Notes
- Use lime juice instead of orange juice for a more traditional tangy Thai flavor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to keep sodium content in check.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Chopping vegetables finely helps ensure each bite contains all the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegan