Name: Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1-2 tbsp chili oil (or neutral oil); 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; 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter; 1-3 garlic cloves (minced); 1-2 tsp Sriracha (optional); 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2-4 tbsp water (to thin)

why make this recipe

Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, this salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of warm crispy rice and a creamy, spicy dressing makes this dish a standout on any dining table. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and a great way to use leftover rice.

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how to make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Ingredients:

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
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)

Directions:

Prep the Salad: In a large bowl, combine edamame, avocado, cucumber, red bell pepper, spring onions, coriander, and dill.
Make Crispy Chili Rice: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the cooked rice on a baking tray, drizzle with chili oil (or neutral oil) and soy sauce, and toss to coat. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring at 10 and 15 minutes, until the rice is deep golden and crisp. (Or air-fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.)
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk peanut butter, minced garlic, Sriracha (optional), rice vinegar, soy sauce, and enough water to reach a pourable consistency. Taste and adjust for heat, tang, or salt.
Assemble and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad, top with the warm crispy rice, and gently toss. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top and finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil or Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately.

how to serve Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

This salad is best served fresh and warm. You can dish it out into bowls and enjoy it right away. Pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for a hearty meal. It’s also a great option for potlucks or gatherings as it’s colorful and appealing!

how to store Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the crispy rice in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. The salad mix can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. If you want to save the dressing, keep it in a separate container. When ready to eat, combine everything again and enjoy.

tips to make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Use leftover rice for a quicker prep time.
Adjust the chili oil and Sriracha to suit your spice preference.
Add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for more color and texture.
For an extra protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.

variation (if any)

You can easily make this salad vegan by ensuring the peanut butter used is plant-based. Swap out the edamame for chickpeas or black beans if you want a different protein source.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it may take a little longer to crisp up.
How can I make the dressing creamier?
Add more peanut butter or a splash of coconut milk for a richer flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, if you choose gluten-free soy sauce, the entire dish will be gluten-free.

Enjoy preparing this delightful and crispy rice salad!