Name: Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad for a Fresh Spring Boost
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Snap Peas (fresh, thinly sliced); 1 cup Edamame (frozen, blanched for 3 minutes); 2 whole Scallions (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (can be omitted); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tablespoons Chili Crisp (adjust based on heat preference); 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup); 1 teaspoon Ginger (grated, fresh preferred); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (untoasted preferred)

Stepping into my kitchen on a sunlit afternoon, I yearned for something light and vibrant to celebrate the beauty of spring. That’s when I stumbled upon the delightful idea of a Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad. With fresh snap peas that crunch delightfully and an addictive chili crisp dressing that whisks your taste buds on an adventure, this salad perfectly embodies the season’s spirit. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal quick-prep meal, but it’s also a satisfying dish that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll be smitten with the marriage of fresh produce and zesty flavors. Ready to explore this crunchy treasure?

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: The Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad showcases a stunning array of greens, making it a feast for the eyes and a perfect centerpiece for your spring table.

Quick & Easy: This recipe is super simple to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and spicy from the chili crisp dressing takes your taste buds on a flavorful journey, elevating every bite.

Healthy & Filling: Packed with protein-rich edamame and fiber-filled snap peas, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for those looking for a light meal.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to mix it up! You can easily add proteins like chicken or tofu, or even try it alongside dishes like Sweet Chili Chicken.

Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, this salad is sure to impress!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Snap Peas – Provide crunch and vibrant color; if unavailable, fresh peas can make an excellent substitute.
• Edamame – Adds protein and a nutty taste; use frozen edamame, blanched for 3 minutes for best results.
• Scallions – Introduce a mild onion flavor; chives can replace scallions for a milder taste.
• Cilantro – Offers aromatic freshness; basil can be used as a tasty alternative herb.

For the Dressing
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds nuttiness and crunch; can be omitted or replaced with chopped nuts for variation.
• Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and brightness; for different tanginess, rice wine vinegar is a great substitution.
• Chili Crisp – Imparts a unique sweet and spicy flavor; adjust based on personal heat preference in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
• Honey – Adds sweetness to balance the dressing; maple syrup works well as a vegan alternative.
• Ginger – Enhances flavor complexity; fresh ginger is preferred for authenticity.
• Sesame Oil – Provides richness and depth; use untoasted sesame oil to avoid overpowering the salad’s flavor.

This combination of ingredients creates a delightful medley that’s sure to brighten your dining experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Step 1: Blanch Edamame
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the frozen edamame, allowing them to cook for about 3 minutes until they float to the surface. Once done, promptly drain the edamame and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process, ensuring they remain vibrant and tender.

Step 2: Prepare Greens
While the edamame cools, take a handful of snap peas and wash them thoroughly under cool water. Pat them dry, then thinly slice the peas on a diagonal to enhance their visual appeal. Combine the sliced snap peas in a large serving bowl with the blanched edamame, chopped cilantro, and thinly sliced scallions. Drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over this mixture and set it aside.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a heat-proof bowl, gather the toasted sesame seeds, honey, grated ginger, and chili crisp. Heat about 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat until shimmering, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Carefully pour this hot oil over your prepped ingredients in the bowl to gently cook the ginger and enhance the dressing’s flavors.

Step 4: Combine
Pour the fragrant dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl, then sprinkle in a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the snap peas and edamame are well-coated with the zesty dressing. Serve this vibrant Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad immediately to savor that delightful crunch and fresh taste!

What to Serve with Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

This vibrant spring salad is a delightful centerpiece that can easily be paired with other dishes to build a satisfying meal.

Grilled Chicken: Tender, marinated chicken provides a hearty contrast and enhances the protein in your meal while complementing the salad’s bright flavors.
Teriyaki Salmon: The sweet soy glaze of teriyaki-marinated fish beautifully matches the salad’s spicy dressing, making each bite a taste sensation.
Quinoa Bowl: A fluffy quinoa base enriches the meal, introducing a nutty texture that harmonizes perfectly with the crispness of the greens.
Rice Noodles: Light, chewy noodles tossed with sesame oil add a delightful texture and soak up the chili crisp flavors, making every forkful enticing.
Szechuan Tofu: The spicy, hearty tofu creates a fulfilling vegan option that meshes perfectly with the crunchy salad, enhancing the meal’s overall excitement.
Crispy Rice Chips: These crunchy bites add an enjoyable texture contrast and make for an entertaining side while providing a vehicle for the refreshing salad flavors.
Citrus Lemonade: A tall glass of this zesty drink brightens the meal while balancing the spice with a refreshing sweetness that everyone will love.

Storage Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fridge: Store the salad components in an airtight container for up to 1–2 days. Keep the snap peas and dressing separate to maintain freshness and crunch.

Dressing: The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will deepen, enhancing your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad experience!

Reheating: If you have leftover salad, avoid reheating, as it’s best served cold. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for a refreshing snack.

Prep Ahead: For easy meal prep, chop the veggies and keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays crisp and vibrant!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Customize this dish to suit your taste buds and elevate your dining experience with exciting twists!

Fresh Peas: Substitute snap peas with fresh peas for a sweet burst of flavor.
Crispy Toppings: Add crispy rice or chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch and satisfying texture.
Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken or marinated tofu for a heartier meal option.
Different Greens: Swap out cilantro for fresh basil or mint to create a unique flavor profile.
Vegan Friendly: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing for a completely vegan take.
Extra Crunch: Toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds can add delightful texture and nutritional value.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to ramp up the heat in your dressing.
Citrus Twist: A splash of lime juice can offer a zesty brightness that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Feeling adventurous? Consider pairing this vibrant salad with dishes like Sweet Chili Chicken or the refreshing Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich for a delightful meal! Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl, and watch how it becomes a family favorite!

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest snap peas and cilantro for vibrant flavor. Wilting can dull the salad’s appeal, so check for freshness before purchasing.
Blanching Perfectly: Don’t overcook the edamame; boiling for exactly 3 minutes preserves their bright color and crispness in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Dressing Timing: Dress the salad just before serving. This ensures the snap peas maintain their satisfying crunch, avoiding a soggy texture.
Adjust the Spice: Taste the dressing before adding it to your salad. You can easily adjust the chili crisp to match your heat preference, avoiding an overpowering flavor.
Storage Strategy: If preparing in advance, store the salad components and dressing separately. This keeps everything fresh for up to two days while maintaining their distinct textures.

Make Ahead Options

These Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad components can be prepped in advance, saving you precious time on busy days! You can blanch the edamame and slice the snap peas up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep their freshness and vibrant color. For the salad, combine the scallions and cilantro with the prepared ingredients, but hold off on adding the dressing until just before serving to maintain the salad’s delightful crunch. You can make the chili crisp dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge—this also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, just toss everything together, and you’ll enjoy a refreshing meal with minimal effort!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe snap peas for the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Absolutely! Look for snap peas that are bright green, firm, and have a smooth texture. They should snap easily when bent. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wilted; freshness is key to that delightful crunch!

What is the best way to store leftovers of the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
I recommend placing the salad components in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness. The salad can last for 1–2 days in the fridge if stored this way. Just remember, dress the salad just before serving to keep that crispy texture!

Can I freeze the ingredients in the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
While I typically advise against freezing this salad due to the snap peas’ texture, you can freeze leftover edamame! Just blanch them first, cool, and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw and toss them back into the fresh salad mixture.

What should I do if the dressing is too spicy for my taste?
Very! If your dressing turns out spicier than expected, you have a couple of options. To mellow the heat, add a teaspoon of honey or a splash of lemon juice to balance it. Mixing in a bit of extra sesame oil can also help cut through the spiciness.

Are there any allergens to consider in the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
That’s a great question! This salad contains sesame seeds, which can be a concern for those with allergies. If needed, feel free to omit the toasted sesame seeds and replace them with an alternative like chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option! Always check package labels for hidden allergens.

How long can I keep the dressing for my Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. I often find that the flavors deepen, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to enjoy your salad! Just give it a good shake before using.