Add a delightful twist to your meal with this Refreshing Thai Spaghetti Salad. Combining the fresh, crisp textures of shredded vegetables with the rich, nutty flavors of a creamy peanut dressing, this salad is a perfect fusion of Thai-inspired ingredients and classic pasta. It’s a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light, satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half, cooked al dente, and well-rinsed with cold water
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bunch (about 6-8) green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 handful chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 handful finely sliced basil leaves
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 heaping tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the spaghetti under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Add the shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and sliced basil leaves to the bowl with the spaghetti. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, vegetable oil, creamy peanut butter, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat the dressing until it’s perfectly blended and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra cilantro, basil, or peanuts if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together
Conclusion:
This Refreshing Thai Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the best of Thai flavors with the comforting familiarity of pasta. The crunchy vegetables, aromatic herbs, and creamy peanut dressing create a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making this salad a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a side dish to impress, this Thai-inspired spaghetti salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and vibrant colors of this delicious dish!