Have you ever encountered a dish that simply screams spring? This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is just that—a vibrant medley of freshness and crunch that’s perfect for those sunny days when you crave something light yet satisfying. With the delightful snap of perfectly blanched peas and the zing of scallions, this salad becomes a go-to for a vegetarian meal that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious. Plus, the unique chili crisp dressing adds a sweet and spicy kick that elevates it well beyond your average green salad. Imagine serving this colorful dish at your next gathering or enjoying it as a rejuvenating lunch—doesn’t that sound tempting? Let’s dive into this crunchy spring delight that will have your taste buds dancing!
What makes this salad a must-try?
Vibrant Colors: This salad is a feast for the eyes, with bright green snap peas and scallions that scream freshness.
Quick Preparation: With no cooking required beyond blanching, it’s perfect for those busy days when you still want something healthy.
Flavor Explosion: The unique chili crisp dressing combines sweetness and spice, bringing an exciting twist to your typical salad.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it as a main dish, or pair it with grilled chicken or teriyaki salmon for a delightful side.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time, and toss them together for an effortless meal anytime. If you’re looking for more light meals, check out my delicious Hot Chicken Salad for another crowd favorite!
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients
• For the Salad
- Snap Peas – A great source of crunch and freshness; slice them on a bias for optimal flavor.
- Edamame – Offers protein and satisfying substance; use frozen edamame without the need to thaw.
- Scallions – Adds sharpness and aromatic depth; use the green parts for garnishing.
- Cilantro – Enhances the salad’s freshness; parsley can be substituted for a milder herb flavor.
• For the Dressing
- Lemon Juice – Introduces bright acidity; rice wine vinegar is a wonderful alternative if needed.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – Provide nuttiness and texture; omit if allergic, or try sunflower seeds instead.
- Honey – Balances flavors with sweetness; maple syrup is an excellent vegan substitute.
- Fresh Ginger – Infuses a spicy warmth; skip powdered ginger for a brighter taste.
- Chili Crisp – The star ingredient bringing heat and umami to the dish; sriracha is a good substitute if unavailable.
- Sesame Oil – Adds depth and richness; opt for refined sesame oil to avoid overpowering the dish.
Enjoy making this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad with these easy-to-find ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
Step 1: Blanch Edamame
Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil and add frozen edamame. Let them cook for 3 minutes, or until they begin to float, indicating they are done. Drain the edamame in a colander and immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving their vibrant green color.
Step 2: Prepare Snap Peas and Greens
While the edamame cools, wash and dry your snap peas thoroughly. Slice them on the bias for a beautiful presentation, ensuring maximum surface area to soak up flavors. In a large bowl, combine the sliced snap peas with the cooled edamame, chopped cilantro, and finely sliced scallions for a fresh and fragrant base for your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Step 3: Make Chili Crisp Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, fresh ginger, and chili crisp until well combined. This dressing will bring a delightful balance of sweetness and spice to your salad, so ensure the honey is fully incorporated and the ginger is finely chopped for an even distribution of flavor.
Step 4: Heat Sesame Oil
In a small skillet, add the sesame oil and heat over medium-low until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot but not smoking. This process takes about 1-2 minutes. Once ready, pour the hot sesame oil over your prepared dressing mixture, which will enhance the flavors and aromas, making it irresistible on your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Step 5: Combine
Drizzle the warm chili crisp dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Season lightly with salt, then gently toss everything together using salad tongs or your hands, ensuring the snap peas and edamame are well coated without bruising them. Serve immediately to maintain the salad’s fresh crunch and vibrant flavors.
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious ideas and make this salad truly your own!
- Fresh Peas: Swap edamame for fresh peas for a sweet burst of flavor. They’re just as vibrant and perfect for spring!
- Crispy Topping: Add chopped peanuts or crispy rice for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender snap peas. Imagine the delightful textures dancing in your mouth!
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro for a unique twist; both add a freshness that will brighten your salad.
- Spicy Kick: For more heat, toss in sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This adds a fiery element that those who love a bit of spice will adore.
- Nutty Flavor: Try using toasted pine nuts or walnuts instead of sesame seeds; they bring a delicious nuttiness that complements the chili crisp dressing.
- Add Fruits: Incorporate citrus segments like orange or grapefruit for a pop of sweetness; their juiciness balances the spice of the dressing perfectly.
- Asian Flair: Blend in some seaweed strips or fried tofu for an authentic Asian twist that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Savory Touch: Consider a touch of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy element; it adds depth and richness, making your salad even more satisfying.
If you’re looking for more refreshing ideas, try my Pasta Salad Refreshing for another delightful spring option or whip up a batch of Hot Chicken Salad to pair it with – both are sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prep the snap peas, edamame, scallions, and cilantro up to 3 days in advance; simply wash, dry, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the salad fresh and crunchy, avoid adding the dressing until just before serving. You can make the chili crisp dressing 24 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge—just give it a good stir before drizzling over the salad mixture. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy a vibrant and delicious chili crisp snap pea salad with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
Fridge: Store the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad’s crunchy texture.
Make-Ahead: If you want to prep ahead, prepare all the salad components without the dressing. Store them in the fridge, and mix with the dressing just before serving for a fresh experience.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the snap peas and dressing may lose their texture and flavor. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Do not reheat, as it may wilt the snap peas and alter the refreshing quality of the dish.
Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crispy texture, serve the salad right after mixing in the dressing; snap peas wilt if dressed too early.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare salad components in advance, but keep the chili crisp dressing separate until just before serving for optimal crunch.
- Right Salt Balance: Adjust salt to taste; it’s essential to enhance flavors without overpowering the delicate taste of the snap peas.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh snap peas and scallions for the best flavor and texture; frozen may compromise the salad’s crunchiness.
- Chili Crisp Substitute: If you can’t find chili crisp, sriracha works in a pinch, but remember it may alter the flavor profile of this light meal.
What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad
A colorful spring salad like this can transform any meal into a feast, embracing freshness and crunch in every bite.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy and tender, grilled chicken adds a hearty contrast to the crispness of your salad, making it a delightful main course.
- Teriyaki Salmon: The sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki salmon create a perfect harmony with the spicy kick of the salad’s chili crisp dressing.
- Quinoa: A fluffy grain that enhances the dish’s lightness while offering extra protein and fiber, turning your meal into a nutritious powerhouse.
- Crispy Tofu: Seasoned and sautéed, crispy tofu complements the salad’s textures and serves as a satisfying vegetarian protein option.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh, light rice paper rolls filled with vegetables complement the vibrant flavors in the salad while adding a fun finger food element.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc, with its acidity and fruity notes, pairs beautifully with this refreshing salad.
- Lemon Sorbet: For a sweet finish, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet, providing a zesty contrast that complements the chili crisp’s heat nicely.
- Garlic Bread: To round out your meal, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting touch—just perfect for soaking up any remaining dressing!
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh snap peas?
Absolutely! When selecting snap peas, look for ones that are bright green, firm, and free of blemishes. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wrinkled, as these may be past their prime.
How should I store leftover salad?
To keep your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it; this prevents the snap peas from wilting and losing their satisfying crunch.
Can I freeze the salad or its components?
It’s best not to freeze this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad as it sacrifices both texture and flavor. However, if you have leftover edamame, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just cook it directly from frozen when you’re ready to use it again!
What if I’m allergic to sesame?
If you have a sesame allergy, you can definitely substitute sesame oil with a neutral oil like canola or avocado oil for the dressing. For a different flavor twist, consider adding a splash of lime juice instead of using sesame seeds; if you’re skipping the seeds, try sunflower seeds as a delightful alternative.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dressing?
Very! If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce the amount of chili crisp and add more honey to balance it. You can also swap it out entirely for a less spicy option like sriracha, but remember to start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, adjusting until the flavor profile suits your preference.
Are there any make-ahead tips for this salad?
Sure! To prep ahead, assemble your salad components—snap peas, edamame, scallions, and cilantro—without the dressing. Store all ingredients in the fridge in separate containers. When you’re ready to serve, mix them together and drizzle with the dressing for a fresh and crunchy salad experience!
Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad: Fresh, Crunchy Spring Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil and add frozen edamame. Cook for 3 minutes until they begin to float. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Wash and dry the snap peas, then slice them on the bias. In a large bowl, combine sliced snap peas, cooled edamame, chopped cilantro, and finely sliced scallions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame seeds, honey, fresh ginger, and chili crisp until well combined.
- In a small skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-low until shimmering. Pour over the dressing mixture.
- Drizzle the warm dressing over the salad mixture and season lightly with salt. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Leave a Reply