Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Name: Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup shelled edamame; 1 ripe avocado; 1 English cucumber; 1 red bell pepper; Fresh herbs (coriander and dill); 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter; 2 tbsp soy sauce; Chili oil (or neutral oil)

Published: December 14, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Flavorful & Bold: The combination of peanut and chili creates a dressing that’s both spicy and creamy.
Nutrient-Packed: With edamame and fresh veggies, this salad provides plenty of vitamins and minerals.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side; it fits well into many meals.
Vegan & Delicious: This salad is 100% plant-based, making it suitable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your crispy rice salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking tray
Large bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Oven or air fryer

Importance of Each Tool

Baking tray: Essential for spreading the rice evenly to get crispy texture.
Large bowl: Perfect for mixing all your fresh ingredients together without any spills.
Small bowl: Ideal for whisking together the dressing components smoothly.

Ingredients

This vibrant vegan Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing brings together golden fried jasmine rice, protein-packed edamame, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a bold and creamy peanut-chili dressing. It’s crunchy, spicy, fresh—and 100% plant-based!

For the Salad

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1-2 tbsp chili oil (or neutral oil if you prefer less heat)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 cup shelled edamame (thawed if frozen)
1 ripe avocado (diced)
1 English cucumber (thinly sliced)
1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced or diced)
3 spring onions (thinly sliced – white + green parts)
1/2 cup fresh coriander (cilantro) (chopped)
1/4 cup fresh dill (roughly chopped)
1/4 cup crushed peanuts

For the Dressing

3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
1-3 garlic cloves (minced – to taste)
1-2 tsp Sriracha (optional – omit or reduce for milder)
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2-4 tbsp water (to thin)

For Garnish

Optional: extra chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for more heat

How to Make Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Step 1: Prep the Salad

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Edamame
2. Avocado
3. Cucumber
4. Red bell pepper
5. Spring onions
6. Coriander
7. Dill

Mix gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 2: Make Crispy Chili Rice

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C):
1. Spread the cooked rice on a baking tray.
2. Drizzle with chili oil (or neutral oil) and soy sauce.
3. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring at 10 and 15 minutes until deep golden and crisp.
Alternatively, air-fry at 400 °F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine peanut butter, minced garlic, Sriracha (if using), rice vinegar, soy sauce.
2. Add enough water to reach a pourable consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad:
1. Top with warm crispy rice.
2. Gently toss everything together.
3. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top.
4. Drizzle with extra chili oil or Sriracha if desired.
5. Serve immediately for best texture!

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

This Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is not just a meal; it’s an experience. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

On a Bed of Greens

Mixed Greens: Serve the salad over a mix of leafy greens like spinach or arugula for added freshness.
Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps, making each bite crunchy and fun.

With Extra Crunch

Tortilla Chips: Pair your salad with crispy tortilla chips for an added crunch that complements the creamy dressing.
Rice Crackers: Serve alongside rice crackers for a light and airy texture contrast.

As a Main Dish

Stuffed Avocados: Hollow out avocados and fill them with the salad for a beautiful presentation and delightful taste.
Buddha Bowls: Layer the salad in a Buddha bowl with grains like quinoa or farro for a wholesome meal.

How to Perfect Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

To make your Crispy Rice Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Flavors: Use freshly minced garlic and high-quality peanut butter to elevate the dressing’s flavor.
Crispiness Check: Ensure the rice is golden brown and crispy before adding it to the salad; this adds texture.
Herb Freshness: Choose fresh herbs like cilantro and dill right before use for maximum flavor impact.
Adjust Heat Levels: Customize the spice by adjusting the amount of Sriracha or chili flakes based on your preference.
Chill Ingredients: Chill the edamame and vegetables beforehand for a refreshing bite when served.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after assembling it to keep everything crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Rice Salad can complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some fantastic options.

Miso Soup: A warm miso soup balances the freshness of the salad perfectly.
Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls add another layer of texture and flavor to your meal.
Pickled Vegetables: Serve pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast that enhances each bite.
Grilled Tofu Skewers: Protein-rich grilled tofu skewers can amplify the meal’s heartiness while keeping it plant-based.
Edamame Pods: A simple serving of steamed edamame pods is nutritious and complements the main dish beautifully.
Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice offers a fragrant base that pairs well with spicy flavors from the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using Cold Rice: Cold rice can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess. Always use freshly cooked or reheated rice for the best texture.
Not Seasoning the Rice: Skipping seasoning can make your salad bland. Ensure you coat the rice with chili oil and soy sauce before baking for enhanced flavor.
Overcooking the Vegetables: Overcooked vegetables lose their crunch and freshness. Toss them gently in the salad just before serving to maintain their vibrant texture.
Ignoring Dressing Consistency: A dressing that is too thick can clump. Add water gradually until it reaches a pourable consistency for even coverage over the salad.
Forgetting Extra Heat Options: If you enjoy spice, remember to include optional ingredients like Sriracha or extra chili flakes for added kick.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of fresh ingredients.
If necessary, freeze only the crispy rice; consume within 1 month.

Reheating Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat rice for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute in the Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing?

You can use quinoa instead of jasmine rice or swap edamame with chickpeas for different protein sources.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! Prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?

Add more water gradually while whisking until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there variations for this Crispy Rice Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or radishes, or switch up herbs based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing is not only vibrant but also versatile. With its delightful crunch and spicy kick, it makes for an exciting meal any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy experimenting with flavors while keeping it healthy and plant-based.