As the first blooms of spring start to unfurl, my kitchen transforms into a vibrant hub of fresh flavors and colors. That’s when I whip up my Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, brimming with the lively crunch of snap peas and the zing of crispy scallions. This delightful salad isn’t just light on your plate; it’s also a quick meal that can stand alone or complement grilled fish beautifully. Plus, it shines with vegetarian goodness, offering a refreshing alternative to mundane fast food. Whether you’re gathering for a sunny picnic or looking for a nutritious lunch, this salad is here to inspire your season. Ready to savor the season’s best? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Vibrant flavors: This salad bursts with the refreshing taste of spring, combining crisp snap peas and savory scallions for a delightful bite.
Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this colorful dish in under 20 minutes!
Versatile: Perfect as a fulfilling meal on its own or a bright side to grilled chicken or fish, it adapts to any occasion.
Healthy option: Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, this Spicy Korean Salad is lighter and healthier than takeout.
Adjustable spice: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili crisp, making it family-friendly for all taste preferences.
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Snap Peas – Ensure they are fresh and brittle for the best crunch in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
• Edamame – Adds a delightful protein punch; swap in fresh peas if needed.
• Scallions – Their mild onion flavor is essential; red onion can work in a pinch.
• Cilantro – This herb brightens the whole dish, but feel free to use parsley for a less intense flavor.
For the Dressing
• Lemon Juice – Brings a zesty acidity to balance the salad; apple cider vinegar can be a great alternative.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Crunchy with a nutty flair; substitute pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
• Honey – Offers a touch of sweetness that mingles beautifully with the spices; switch to maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Ginger – Fresh ginger delivers warmth; ground ginger can be used but adjust the amount.
• Chili Crisp – The star of the dish, adding a spicy kick and complex flavor; use sparingly for a milder experience.
Optional Toppings
• Chopped Nuts – For an added crunch and richness; consider almonds or cashews.
• Crispy Rice – Sprinkle on top for extra texture and fun!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
Step 1: Blanch the Edamame
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the edamame and let them cook for about 3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Carefully drain the edamame using a colander, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and retain their bright green color.
Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients
While your edamame cools, wash and dry the snap peas thoroughly. Slice them on a bias for enhanced texture and presentation. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, the blanched edamame, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro. Toss gently to ensure even distribution, creating a colorful base for your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a heatproof bowl, mix together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp. Heat a small saucepan over medium-high heat and pour in sesame oil, allowing it to shimmer. Once hot, carefully pour the oil over the mixture in the bowl, stirring quickly to combine all the ingredients and bring out their vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Pour the spicy dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Season lightly with salt to enhance the flavors, then toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well-coated in the dressing. Serve your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad immediately for the freshest taste and optimal crunch, delighting in the colorful presentation.
What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
This colorful salad opens up a world of delightful pairings that enhance your dining experience and celebrate fresh flavors.
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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: The sweet and savory notes of teriyaki chicken beautifully complement the salad’s crunch, creating a satisfying harmony on your plate. Serve these together for a vibrant meal that’s bursting with flavor.
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Classic Sticky Rice: This sticky companion provides a soft, chewy texture that balances the crispness of the salad, creating a fulfilling dish that’s both light and hearty.
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Toasted Sesame Noodles: Earthy, nutty, and a touch sweet, sesame noodles add a comforting, flavorful side that pairs perfectly with the zesty salad, delivering a delightful contrast.
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Roasted Salmon: The rich, buttery flavor of roasted salmon brings depth to your meal and works in tandem with the fresh ingredients of the salad for a deliciously balanced plate.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy grilled shrimp seasoned with a light marinade enhance the freshness of the salad. Their tender bite and smoky flavor create a delightful culinary interplay.
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Crispy Tofu Bites: Lightly fried tofu adds protein and a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect partner for the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad. This vegetarian option delivers both nutrition and flavor.
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Chilled White Wine: A light and crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, elevates your meal while complementing the refreshing elements of the salad. The acidity and fruity notes will tantalize your taste buds.
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Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, consider a scoop of coconut sorbet. Its tropical sweetness cleanses the palate and offers a refreshing finish, perfectly wrapping up your spring-inspired dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can sit out for up to 2 hours before food safety becomes a concern.
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Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the snap peas.
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Freezer: Not recommended, as freezing can alter the texture of the snap peas and other fresh ingredients in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
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Reheating: Serve the salad cold for the best flavor. If you must reheat any leftovers, gently warm the edamame in a microwave without overcooking.
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations
Feel free to customize this refreshing salad for your taste buds, infusing it with new flavors and textures!
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Chickpea Swap: Substitute edamame with chickpeas for a heartier protein option. This adds a delightful creaminess and a different flavor profile.
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Leafy Greens Base: Incorporate other greens like arugula or spinach for a vibrant twist. Mixing in these greens can enhance the salad’s nutritional value and add a unique taste.
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Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or more chili crisp. This variation is perfect for spice lovers who crave an extra kick.
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Nutty Delight: Sprinkle in some chopped almonds or cashews for a beautiful crunch. The nutty flavor contrasts beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables.
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Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a different herbaceous note. These herbs can bring a refreshing summertime vibe to the dish.
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Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey to make the dressing completely vegan-friendly. This ensures everyone can enjoy the salad without compromising on taste.
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Fruit Twist: Toss in diced apples or pears for a hint of sweetness. The fruity addition can balance the heat of the chili crisp and add a surprising flavor layer.
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Zesty Dressing: Experiment with lime juice in place of lemon juice for a different citrus flair. Lime can give the salad an exciting kick that pairs well with the chili crisp.
For more delicious variations, consider exploring a festive offering like Christmas Salad Festive or a refreshing Harvest Pasta Salad. Your culinary journey can be as unique as you are!
Make Ahead Options
Prep your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad in advance to save time during busy weeknights! You can wash and slice the snap peas, blanch the edamame, and mix together the scallions and cilantro up to 24 hours ahead. Store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. For the dressing, combine the sesame seeds, honey, ginger, and chili crisp, then refrigerate it separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, add a pinch of salt, and enjoy a delightful, fresh salad that still tastes just as delicious as when you first made it!
Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest snap peas and herbs for the best flavor. Dull vegetables can make your chili crisp snap pea salad less vibrant.
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Hold the Crunch: If prepping ahead, store the salad and dressing separately. This keeps the snap peas crisp and the flavors fresh until serving.
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Adjust Heat Levels: Start with a small amount of chili crisp and gradually increase to find your family’s perfect spice level in the chili crisp snap pea salad.
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Perfectly Blanched Edamame: Make sure to time the blanching of your edamame; overcooking can lead to mushiness, which detracts from the salad’s delightful textures.
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Dress Right Before Serving: To maintain the salad’s freshness and crunch, only dress your chili crisp snap pea salad just before you’re ready to enjoy it.
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best snap peas?
Absolutely! When selecting snap peas, look for bright green pods that are crisp and firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wilting, as those may be past their prime. Ideally, pick snap peas that are uniform in size for even cooking and presentation.
How should I store leftover Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Very good question! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the snap peas crisp, always store the dressing separately. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
Can I freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Not recommended, I’m afraid. Freezing this salad would alter the delightful crunch of the snap peas and other fresh ingredients. If you have extra edamame, feel free to freeze that on its own for up to 3 months, but enjoy the salad fresh for the best experience!
What if I have allergies to any ingredients?
Absolutely, it’s essential to be cautious! If you or someone at your table has allergies to certain ingredients, there are great substitutes. For instance, replace edamame with chickpeas for a protein source, or use a nut-free seed mix instead of nuts in the dressing. Always read labels carefully to ensure safety in your meal preparation.
How can I boost the protein content of this salad?
A wonderful way to enhance the protein content is by adding chickpeas or quinoa. Simply toss them into the mix along with the other ingredients. You can also serve the salad alongside a protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a complete and hearty meal!
What if I want a milder salad?
That’s an easy fix! To tone down the spiciness of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, simply use less chili crisp during the dressing preparation. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely and replace it with a pinch of black pepper or a dash of tamari for umami without the heat. Enjoy customizing to fit your taste!
Zesty Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad for a Fresh Spring Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the edamame and let them cook for about 3 minutes. Carefully drain the edamame using a colander, then rinse them under cold water.
- While your edamame cools, wash and dry the snap peas thoroughly. Slice them on a bias. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, the blanched edamame, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro. Toss gently to ensure even distribution.
- In a heatproof bowl, mix together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp. Heat a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add sesame oil, then pour it over the mixture in the bowl, stirring quickly to combine.
- Pour the spicy dressing over the salad mixture. Season lightly with salt, then toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well-coated. Serve immediately.
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