Thai Pasta Salad Recipe – Thai Special
Thai Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully blends the freshness of vegetables with the nutty richness of sesame and the zesty notes of lime and herbs. This dish is inspired by traditional Thai flavors, making it a delightful fusion meal that’s perfect for warm weather or potlucks. It’s light, refreshing, and can be served as a side dish or a main course. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite!
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time30 min
For the Salad Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as spaghetti or rice noodles)
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (red and yellow)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup edamame (cooked and shelled)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional, adjust to taste)
Cook the Pasta:
Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
Chop Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables by slicing the bell peppers, dicing the cucumber, grating the carrots, shredding the red cabbage, and chopping the cilantro and green onions.
Make the Dressing:
Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili paste until well combined.
Combine the Salad:
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, and edamame.
Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
Chill (optional): For best flavor, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving, or refrigerate until chilled.
Garnish: Serve the salad garnished with additional cilantro and green onions if desired.
Recipe Notes:
Pasta Choices: Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on your preference.
Vegetable Variations: You can add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, cherry tomatoes, or radishes for extra crunch.
Protein Additions: To make it a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
