Name: Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup shredded carrots (from the bag); 1/2 small head of red cabbage, chopped (about 2-3 cups shredded cabbage); 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion; 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lime juice or rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos; 1-2 teaspoons yellow curry powder; 1/4 teaspoon red cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric; 3-4 tablespoons warm water, to thin dressing; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Extra cilantro; Sliced green onion; 1/4 cup roasted cashews or peanuts

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

The vibrant, flavorful, and crunchy Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe is a spectacular way to brighten up your lunch or dinner plate. Packed with colorful veggies, hearty chickpeas, and a luscious curry peanut dressing that perfectly balances zest and spice, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing, satisfying meal that feels like a special treat. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch or a quick, elegant dinner, this recipe delivers freshness and richness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a bowl filled with smooth, thick brown sauce with small air bubbles, covering most of the bowl’s surface. Inside the bowl is a silver spoon resting, coated in the sauce with a shiny reflection on it. The bowl is white with a subtle black grid pattern around the rim and sits on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe thrives on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of taste, texture, and visual appeal. Each item has been carefully chosen to contribute crunch, creaminess, heat, and herbal notes, making this salad delightful and balanced.

Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and a pop of bright red color.
Shredded Carrots: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant orange hues for freshness.
Red Cabbage: Offers a beautiful purple shade and a satisfying crisp texture.
Chickpeas: The hearty plant-based protein and fiber-packed base that satiates.
Cilantro: Imparts fresh, citrusy, herbal brightness to the salad.
Green Onion: Provides mild pungency and lovely green accents.
Jalapeño: Introduces just the right kick without overwhelming the palate.
Peanut Butter: The creamy and nutty foundation of the curry dressing.
Fresh Ginger: Adds a zesty, warming spice to the dressing.
Garlic: Delivers aromatic depth and savory notes.
Lime Juice or Rice Vinegar: Brings essential acidity for balance.
Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos: Offers savory umami savoriness with a salty finish.
Yellow Curry Powder: Gives the dressing its distinctive exotic flavor and vibrant color.
Red Cayenne Pepper: Adds a touch of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Ground Turmeric: Provides earthiness and beautiful golden tones.
Warm Water: Used to thin the dressing to perfect pourable consistency.
Roasted Cashews or Peanuts: For garnish, adding crunch and extra nuttiness.

How to Make Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Veggies and Chickpeas

Start by chopping your crisp red bell pepper, shredding carrots, and finely slicing your red cabbage into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful is loaded with texture and flavor. Rinse and drain the chickpeas well to avoid excess moisture so they retain their pleasant firmness. Combine these ingredients with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced jalapeño to create a beautifully colorful base bursting with freshness.

Step 2: Whip Up the Curry Peanut Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together creamy peanut butter with freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for a rich and aromatic base. Add lime juice or rice vinegar for bright acidity that lifts the flavors. Incorporate soy sauce or coconut aminos for depth and saltiness alongside yellow curry powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and turmeric, which give the dressing its signature spice and golden color. Stir until smooth, then slowly add warm water to reach a thin, pourable consistency that will coat the salad beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the luscious curry peanut dressing over the vibrant vegetable and chickpea mixture. Toss it thoroughly so every ingredient is generously coated, ensuring each bite delivers a harmonious balance of creamy, crunchy, and spicy sensations. This simple step brings the dish to life, transforming humble ingredients into something truly special.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

For an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor, scatter roasted cashews or peanuts over the top along with a few fresh cilantro leaves and sliced green onions. These garnishes not only elevate the dish visually but also provide satisfying contrasts that make this salad an unforgettable experience.

How to Serve Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a colorful salad showing about five layers: the base layer is shredded purple cabbage with its deep violet color and crinkly texture; scattered on top are bright orange shredded carrots adding a fine, stringy texture; there are chunks of red bell pepper adding vibrant red spots; round chickpeas and pale cashew nuts are mixed through, giving a plump and smooth texture; green onion slices and chopped cilantro leaves are sprinkled all over for fresh green color and delicate shapes; the salad is lightly coated with a creamy orange-yellow dressing that adds a glossy finish; two wooden spoons with a natural grain texture rest inside the bowl on the right side; the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a lime half and scattered green onion pieces nearby; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a finishing flourish, sprinkle extra fresh cilantro and sliced green onions atop your salad, offering a fresh herbal punch and vibrant green color. The crunch of roasted cashews or peanuts complements the creamy dressing beautifully and introduces an irresistible nutty richness that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs exceptionally well with light sides such as warm jasmine rice, fragrant coconut rice, or even simple steamed baby bok choy. These accompaniments allow the flavors of the Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe to shine while providing a balanced, filling meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the salad in individual glass bowls or mason jars layered with the dressing at the bottom and salad on top, perfect for picnics or meal prep. Alternatively, use vibrant banana leaves or large lettuce leaves as edible bowls for a tropical flair that delights guests and sparks conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crispness, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

Freezing

This vibrant Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter the texture of the raw vegetables and dressing. However, you can freeze the curry peanut dressing on its own in a small airtight container and thaw in the fridge when ready to use.

Reheating

Since the salad is meant to be enjoyed cool or at room temperature, no reheating is necessary. If you like, warm a side like jasmine rice to accompany it, and serve the salad fresh for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad nut-free?

Absolutely! To keep the nutty flavor without peanuts or cashews, you can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the nut garnishes, ensuring the dressing still tastes rich and creamy.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing umami flavor.

How spicy is the salad?

The heat level comes mainly from the jalapeño and a touch of cayenne pepper. You can adjust or omit these to make the salad milder or spicier based on your preference.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies and dressing separately in advance, then toss everything together right before serving to maintain the crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the entire Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe is vegan-friendly, making it a great option for plant-based diets seeking delicious and nutritious meals.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make salad that packs a punch of bold tastes with nourishing ingredients, the Chopped Thai-Inspired Chickpea Salad with Curry Peanut Dressing Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a wholesome solo meal. Dive in and savor every vibrant, crunchy, creamy bite—you might just find your new favorite salad!