Name: Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 16 ounces frozen shelled edamame; 1 cup shredded red cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 2 cups chopped kale; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional); 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or cashews; 6 tablespoons creamy peanut butter; 3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, textures, and bold flavors, this Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe is just what you need. Protein-packed edamame meets crunchy vegetables and a luscious Thai-inspired peanut dressing to create a salad that’s refreshing, satisfying, and perfect whether you’re serving it as a lively side or a complete meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that strikes the perfect balance between wholesome nutrition and irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds a colorful mix of fresh ingredients arranged in layered sections against a white marbled surface. Starting at the bottom left, bright green edamame beans form one thick layer. Above them, light brown peanuts are piled next to dark green, curly kale leaves. Shiny chopped leafy greens sit next to the kale. To the right of the greens, thin slices of light green celery are visible before deep purple chopped cabbage makes a vibrant layer at the top-right. Bright orange shredded carrots fill the bottom right side of the bowl. In the middle, a smooth, thick brown sauce spreads over the carrots and celery. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe. Each component brings its own unique flair—from the protein-rich edamame to the crisp cabbage and kale adding color and crunch, and the peanut sauce tying everything together with savory sweetness and a little kick.

16 ounces frozen shelled edamame: This protein powerhouse forms the base of the salad, providing satisfying texture and nutrients.
1 cup shredded red cabbage: Adds vibrant purple color and a satisfying crunch to brighten up every bite.
1 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and bright orange hues make the salad visually appealing and delicious.
1/2 cup chopped green onions: Brings a mild, fresh onion flavor that livens up the salad.
2 cups chopped kale: Adds hearty greens and earthiness, boosting the salad’s fiber and vitamins.
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note if you love that punch of brightness.
1/2 cup chopped peanuts or cashews: Provides delightful crunch and nutty richness.
6 tablespoons creamy peanut butter: The creamy base of the dressing, delivering bold peanut flavor and a luscious texture.
3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar: Adds tangy acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Infuses savory umami that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Introduces natural sweetness that complements the salty and tangy notes.
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Provides a subtle smoky aroma that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A warm spice that adds complexity to the peanut sauce.
1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce or to taste: Adds just the right amount of heat for a little kick without overpowering.

How to Make Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Edamame

Start by cooking the frozen shelled edamame according to the package instructions, usually just a boil or steam until tender. Rinse them under cold water right after cooking to stop the cooking process and cool them down, which helps keep their bright green color and firm texture.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the cooled edamame, shredded red cabbage, carrots, green onions, chopped kale, and cilantro if you’re using it. This mix of fresh veggies provides a lively crunch and a gorgeous rainbow of colors, making your salad both nutritious and visually enticing.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce

In a small to medium bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, seasoned rice vinegar, low sodium soy sauce, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, and Sriracha. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of warm water a little at a time until it’s smooth and easy to drizzle over the salad.

Step 4: Toss Salad with Dressing

Pour the peanut sauce over the salad and toss thoroughly until every bite is coated with that irresistible creamy, tangy dressing. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts or cashews on top for extra texture and nuttiness, then cover and chill the salad for at least an hour if you can—this helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe

A white oval plate holds a colorful salad with three main layers: a base of bright orange shredded carrots, mixed with dark green curly kale, topped with large light green edamame beans and small pieces of purple cabbage. The salad looks fresh and slightly glossy, suggesting a light dressing. A pair of black chopsticks with gold accents rest on the right side of the plate, partially touching the salad. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, and a sprig of green herbs is visible in the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of flavor and texture, sprinkle a few more chopped nuts or a handful of toasted sesame seeds just before serving. Fresh cilantro leaves or thinly sliced red chili can also brighten things up and add visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This salad works beautifully alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or seafood for a balanced meal. It can also stand strong with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or nutty quinoa, which soak up that luscious peanut sauce and bring extra heartiness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups for a fun, handheld bite or layer it atop rice noodles for a refreshing noodle bowl. You can even use it as a filling for wraps or pita pockets to take this flavorful Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe on the go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To preserve maximum freshness, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving if you plan to keep it longer.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and peanut sauce, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture and flavor of the crunchy veggies and peanut dressing can degrade after thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to warm it up, opt to gently heat just the peanuts or add warm components like grilled protein on the side rather than reheating the entire salad.

FAQs

Can I use fresh edamame instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh edamame can be used if available, but frozen shelled edamame is convenient and just as nutritious once cooked.

Is there a vegan option for the peanut sauce?

This Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use soy sauce that does not contain fish ingredients and avoid honey if substituting sweeteners.

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut or seed butter?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter makes a delicious alternative, offering a slightly different flavor but maintaining that creamy texture.

How spicy is the salad with the Sriracha?

The level of heat is mild and adjustable. Start with less Sriracha and add more to taste; it adds just a gentle kick that complements the creamy dressing.

Can I add grains or noodles to make it a complete meal?

Yes, adding cooked quinoa, rice, or rice noodles turns this salad into a hearty, filling meal. It’s a great way to customize according to your appetite.

Final Thoughts

This Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes for a reason—it’s fresh, flavorful, and so satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a vibrant side, or a light dinner, this recipe delivers on every level. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple!

Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need