Save This Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing is a vibrant explosion of textures and flavors. Imagine golden, crunchy rice clusters meeting fresh, snap-crisp vegetables, all brought together by a bold, nutty peanut-sesame dressing that packs a punch. It is the perfect solution for a satisfying meal prep lunch or a refreshing side dish that will impress any crowd.
Save The heart of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether you are serving it as a light vegetarian main or a side for your favorite protein, the combination of sesame oil, ginger, and chili crisp ensures a depth of flavor that feels both gourmet and comforting. It's a creative way to transform leftovers into something truly spectacular.
Ingredients
- Crispy Rice: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old), 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari, 1 tbsp chili crisp.
- Peanut Sesame Dressing: 3 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp peanut butter (or tahini), 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup/agave), 2 tsp chili crisp, ½-inch piece fresh ginger (grated), salt and pepper.
- Fresh Vegetables: 3 cups shredded cabbage, 1 cup sliced cucumber, 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 medium carrot (grated), ½ cup chopped sugar snap peas, 2 sliced green onions.
- Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, mix the day-old jasmine rice with 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari), and 1 tbsp chili crisp until evenly coated.
- Step 3
- Spread the rice mixture into a thin, even layer on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket. Leave some clusters for extra crunch.
- Step 4
- Bake in the air fryer for 16–18 minutes or in the oven for 40 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool, then break into bite-sized clumps.
- Step 5
- While the rice cooks, whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl: sesame oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili crisp, and grated ginger. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Step 6
- In a large salad bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, sugar snap peas, and green onions.
- Step 7
- Add the crispy rice clusters and drizzle with the peanut sesame dressing. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using day-old jasmine rice is essential because it has less moisture, allowing it to crisp up beautifully rather than becoming mushy. When spreading the rice on the tray, ensure it is in a thin layer but keep those small clusters together—they provide the best crunch in the finished salad.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the honey for maple syrup and ensure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly. For a nut-free version, tahini or sunflower seed butter works as an excellent substitute for peanut butter. You can also boost the protein by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is best served immediately after tossing to ensure the rice clusters maintain their maximum crunch. It makes a beautiful centerpiece for a summer lunch or a vibrant side dish for an Asian-inspired dinner party. If you are meal prepping, keep the dressing and crispy rice separate from the vegetables until you are ready to eat.
Save Whether you are looking for a fresh new lunch option or a side dish that stands out, this Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing delivers on every front. Enjoy the perfect harmony of nutty, spicy, and fresh flavors in every bite!
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → How do I achieve crispy rice?
Use day-old jasmine rice coated with sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili crisp, then bake or air fry until golden and crisp.
- → Can I make the dressing nut-free?
Yes, substitute peanut butter with tahini or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- → What vegetables work best in this salad?
Cabbage, cucumber, red bell pepper, carrot, sugar snap peas, and green onions add great crunch and freshness.
- → How should this salad be served?
Toss the crispy rice clusters with vegetables and dressing just before serving, then garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
- → Is there a vegan option available?
Replace honey with maple syrup or agave and use tahini instead of peanut butter for a fully vegan version.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, include cooked tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra protein and flavor variety.