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Spicy Thai-Inspired Peanut Orzo Salad


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

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

  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