Purple Cabbage Salad With Thai Peanut Dressing

This salad combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the bold, savory, and slightly sweet notes of Thai peanut dressing. This dynamic flavor duo tastes gourmet but comes together in minutes.

Vibrant, Colorful & Nutrient-Rich

Purple cabbage isn’t just colorful, it’s packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give it that rich, jewel-like color. This veggie also delivers vitamin C, fiber, and phytonutrients that support digestion and immune health.

Balanced Macros & Satisfying Texture

The combination of shredded cabbage, crisp carrots, fresh herbs, and buttery peanuts makes this a crunchy, low-calorie salad that still feels abundant and satisfying. And that creamy thai peanut dressing checks all the boxes for bold Asian-inspired flavor.

Ultimate Crowd Pleaser

Perfect as a side dish for BBQs and potlucks, a refreshing lunch on its own, or a healthy meal prep option for the week.

Making this dressing at home is simple, but here are a few tips to take it to the next level:

Adjust Consistency

If your Thai peanut dressing feels too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired texture. A slightly thinner consistency makes it easier to coat every bite of salad perfectly.

Fresh Ingredients Matter

Use fresh lime juice and freshly grated ginger when possible. These elements elevate the dressing’s brightness and aromatic quality, giving it that irresistible Thai flavor.

Spice It Up

For heat lovers, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of sriracha added to the dressing enhances the spicy kick — making your Thai peanut dressing even more vibrant.

Salad

• 1/2 head purple cabbage, shredded
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 3 scallions, green parts only, chopped
• 1 cup sugar snap peas, chopped
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
  

Dressing

• 1/4 cup Spread The Love® NAKED Organic Peanut Butter
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
• 2 tbsp tamari, soy sauce, or coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp peeled and grated fresh ginger (about 1.5 inch piece)
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 - 2 tbsp water (if desired)

✔ Step 1 -

First, prepare the Thai peanut dressing. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, lime juice, tamari, maple syrup, sesame oil, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Whisk vigorously until smooth and well combined. If the dressing is too thick to pour, thin out with water to achieve desired consistency. (Note: thai peanut dressing will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, if preparing in advance.)

✔ Step 2 -

Next, prepare the salad. Combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, sugar snap peas, and cilantro in a large bowl. Top with desired amount of dressing, and toss until vegetables are well coated. Top with peanuts and serve immediately.

• Add Protein: Tofu, chicken, or shrimp, turn this into a complete meal.

• Extra Veggies: Red bell peppers, cucumbers, or mango add sweetness and crunch.

• Allergy Swaps: Almond or cashew butter can be used in place of peanut butter if needed.

These swaps allow you to tailor the salad to your preferences while still enjoying the bold flavors of Thai peanut dressing.