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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orzo, bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts.
- 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.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- 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