Spicy Peanut Quinoa Salad

This Spicy Peanut Quinoa salad has a rainbow of crunchy veggies and a luxurious Thai Peanut inspired dressing. It is vegan with gluten free options, and holds up well for several days, making it great for meal prep or bringing to a party or BBQ.

This post was originally posted on 9/11/2015. It was updated with new photos and text on 9/30/2022.

I am updating some of my oldest posts, including this Peanut Quinoa Salad from way back in 2015. I’ve been making this recipe for even longer, and it has long been one of my favorite healthy meal prep recipes. The Peanut dressing was the inspiration for my popular Thai Peanut Sauce.

How to make Quinoa

One very important thing to do when cooking quinoa is to always rinse it first. Add the quinoa to a fine mesh strainer, and rinse until water runs clear.

Although you can follow package instructions to cook quinoa, I really like this method from Cookie and Katie.

After rinsing, add 1 part quinoa and 2 parts water to a pan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10-20 minutes, until water is absorbed.

Remove from heat and cover, allow to sit for about 5 minutes. Remove lid and fluff with a fork.

Peanut Dressing for Quinoa Salad

I’ve been making versions of this peanut dressing for years, and ultimately it led to my Thai Peanut Sauce recipe. This version is a little different, including some fresh basil that really makes the flavors pop. The basil is optional, but use it if you’ve got it.

Ingredients for Peanut Dressing

• ½ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce*
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves finely minced or pressed
• 2-3 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 1-2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 cup fresh basil optional, but good

Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until blended. You can make this without the food processor if you leave out the basil. Just whisk everything together, and then chop the basil and add it to the salad.

How to make Spicy Peanut Quinoa Salad

• Add cooked quinoa, cabbage, bell pepper, green onions and carrots to a large bowl, toss to combine.
• Add peanut sauce to other ingredients and stir until everything is coated in sauce.
• Taste and add salt if needed.
• Allow to sit for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Can be served cold or at room temperature.

How to store Spicy Peanut Quinoa Salad

This Quinoa Salad keeps very well in the fridge. It makes an excellent meal prep option, because the vegetables used are sturdy and don’t get soggy very quickly. I find it tastes best for about three days.

More Recipes you will Love

• Thai Peanut Sauce
• Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
• Easy Chickpea Curry
• Israeli Couscous Salad
• Spring Roll Bowls
• Peanut Chicken Wraps