Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen features crisp mixed greens, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, edamame, and roasted peanuts tossed in a zesty chili-lime dressing, delivering a vibrant blend of fresh, crunchy, and spicy flavors.
Equipments
- Salad spinner
- Large mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Julienne peeler or mandoline slicer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Serving tongs
Ingredients
- 5 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup shelled edamame (steamed or thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
- For the chili-lime dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili-garlic sauce (such as sambal oelek)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (like sunflower or canola)
- Salt, to taste
When preparing the Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen, using fresh lime juice and freshly grated ginger is essential to achieve the authentic zesty and aromatic flavor profile of the chili-lime dressing. Selecting tender, crisp mixed greens and shredding the red cabbage finely will ensure the salad maintains its refreshing crunch. You can use either steamed or thawed edamame for a soft texture that complements the other vegetables. Roasted peanuts add a necessary nutty crunch, so make sure they are not salted or roasted with additional flavors that could overpower your dressing. Your copycat Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen will closely mirror the vibrant, fresh, and spicy character of the original when these ingredient details are carefully followed.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Wash and dry mixed greens using a salad spinner.
- Shred red cabbage and julienne carrots with a knife, julienne peeler, or mandoline slicer.
- Steam or thaw shelled edamame if needed.
- Chop cilantro and thinly slice scallions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, chili-garlic sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, neutral oil, and salt to make the dressing.
- Add mixed greens, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, edamame, peanuts, cilantro, and scallions to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the chili-lime dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss salad with serving tongs until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen combines crisp mixed greens, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, steamed edamame, and roasted peanuts with a tangy chili-lime dressing for a refreshing and spicy meal option. If you don't have a julienne peeler or mandoline slicer, a sharp chef's knife can be used to finely slice the carrots to maintain a similar texture. When substituting edamame, you can use shelled peas or green beans for a comparable crunch and color. For the chili-lime dressing, sambal oelek can be replaced with any chili paste or hot sauce you have on hand, adjusting the quantity to your preferred spice level. You can whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and toss the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Tips
Ensure all salad greens and vegetables are thoroughly dried with a salad spinner to prevent a watery dressing and soggy texture. Use a mandoline slicer or julienne peeler for uniformly cut carrots and cabbage, enhancing presentation and even flavor distribution. When whisking the chili-lime dressing, add the oil slowly to achieve a smooth emulsion that coats your salad evenly. Taste the dressing before tossing to adjust salt or spice levels, making sure your salad perfectly matches your flavor preference.
Nutritions
Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen is rich in dietary fiber, thanks to the mixed greens, cabbage, carrots, and edamame, which support digestive health. Roasted peanuts provide a good source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, helping you feel full and energized. The chili-lime dressing adds antioxidants and vitamins from lime juice, garlic, and ginger, promoting immune function. Your meal balances fresh vegetables and nutrient-dense ingredients, making it a flavorful yet wholesome choice.
Storage
Store leftover Spicy Thai Salad components separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess; keep mixed greens, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, edamame, and peanuts in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Preserve the chili-lime dressing in a sealed jar or small container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, toss your salad ingredients with the dressing just before eating to retain their crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the shelled edamame with cooked chickpeas or green peas for a different texture and protein boost. Swap roasted peanuts for cashews or toasted almonds to alter the nutty flavor profile while keeping the crunch. If a milder spice is preferred, reduce the chili-garlic sauce and add extra lime juice or honey to balance the heat. Experiment with lime zest or fresh mint in the dressing to elevate the citrus aroma and add a refreshing twist.
Allergies
The Spicy Thai Salad contains common allergens such as peanuts and soy, which are present in the roasted peanuts and soy sauce respectively. Sesame oil in the dressing may also trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. You should exercise caution if you have nut or soy allergies and consider substituting or omitting these ingredients.
Why this recipe?
The Spicy Thai Salad from Sweetgreen is favored for its vibrant blend of fresh vegetables, bold spices, and tangy dressing that delivers a perfect balance of heat and zest. You'll enjoy the unique combination of crisp greens, crunchy peanuts, and lively chili peppers that create a refreshing yet fiery flavor profile. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the heat level and ingredient quality while savoring a healthy, nutrient-packed dish right at home. Its popularity stems from its distinctive taste, nutritious ingredients, and the satisfying crunch that keeps customers coming back for more.