Description

This Refreshing Thai Spaghetti Salad is the perfect combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Imagine crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and tender spaghetti, all tossed in a creamy peanut dressing with a hint of spice. It’s the ideal dish for a light lunch, a potluck side, or a vibrant dinner. Quick to prepare, refreshing, and oh-so-delicious, this salad will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half, cooked al dente, and rinsed with cold water
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 bunch (6–8 stalks) green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
1 handful fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

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

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Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse the spaghetti under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles.
Set the spaghetti aside in a large mixing bowl.

2. Prepare the Salad

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 cooled spaghetti.
Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. 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.
Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or cayenne pepper.

Pro Tip: If the dressing is too thick, add a teaspoon of water to thin it to your preferred consistency.

4. Toss the Salad with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure the spaghetti and vegetables are well coated in the creamy peanut dressing.

5. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
Garnish with extra roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro and basil for added flavor and presentation.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Notes

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and add a splash of rice vinegar or oil if the dressing thickens too much.
Make-Ahead: Prep the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Adjust Heat: For a spicier kick, add a little more cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired