Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad

This Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad brings bold flavor and a refreshing crunch to your table. Tender orzo mingles with crisp veggies and a luscious peanut dressing that’s equal parts creamy, tangy, and spicy. It’s perfect as a light lunch, picnic dish, or a vibrant side that’s anything but boring. Whether served chilled or freshly tossed, every bite delivers a zesty punch that satisfies.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

For the Peanut Dressing:

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency with extra water if needed.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Serve right away or chill for 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Variation

1. Swap orzo with rice noodles or quinoa for a gluten-free twist.
2. Add grilled shrimp or rotisserie chicken to turn it into a heartier main course.
3. Use chopped mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the spicy peanut dressing.

Cooking Notes

1. Rinse the orzo under cold water after boiling to prevent sticking and stop the cooking process.
2. The dressing thickens slightly as it sits thin it with a splash of water before serving if needed.
3. Freshly chopped herbs like Thai basil or mint can add an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve chilled in lettuce cups for a fun, crunchy presentation.
2. Pair with grilled satay skewers or spring rolls for a complete meal.
3. Enjoy as a make-ahead lunch perfect for meal prepping.

Tips

• Use natural peanut butter for a more authentic, less sweet dressing.
• Dice vegetables uniformly for an even, beautiful bite every time.
• Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully develop.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 9g
• Sodium: 480mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling. Make it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

2. Is this salad vegan-friendly?
   It can be! Just use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

3. Can I substitute orzo with another grain?
   Absolutely. Quinoa, couscous, or even soba noodles work well as alternatives.

4. How spicy is the dressing?
   The heat level is mild to moderate depending on how much sriracha you use. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your liking.

Conclusion

This Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad is the perfect combo of fresh crunch and creamy heat. Quick to toss together and loaded with bold flavor, it’s a salad that actually satisfies. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or bringing something vibrant to the table, this dish delivers every time! 🥗🥜🔥

Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad

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• Author: Avery
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad brings bold flavor and a refreshing crunch to your table. Tender orzo mingles with crisp veggies and a luscious peanut dressing that’s equal parts creamy, tangy, and spicy. It’s perfect as a light lunch, picnic dish, or a vibrant side that’s anything but boring. Whether served chilled or freshly tossed, every bite delivers a zesty punch that satisfies.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Salad:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

For the Peanut Dressing:

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin)

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency with extra water if needed.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Serve right away or chill for 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Notes

• For added protein, toss in cooked shredded chicken or tofu.
• Use maple syrup for a vegan version.
• Adjust sriracha for more or less heat depending on your preference.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiled + Tossed
• Cuisine: Thai-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Orzo salad, Thai peanut dressing, cold pasta salad, vegetarian salad