Name: Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame: A Fresh Flavor Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Day-Old Jasmine Rice (Ensure it's well-dried); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (For frying the rice); 3 tablespoons Peanut Butter or Tahini (Nut-free alternative: sunflower butter); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Substitute: lemon or lime juice); 1 tablespoon Honey (Substitute: maple syrup for vegan); 1 teaspoon Grated Ginger (Fresh is best); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (For garnish); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (Use tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon Chili Crisp (Substitute: Sriracha for milder flavor); 1 cup Green and Red Cabbage (Swaps: bok choy or coleslaw mix); 1 cup Cucumber (Substitute: bell peppers); 1 cup Red Bell Pepper (Any bell pepper color works); 1 cup Carrots (Pre-grated or julienned); 1 cup Sugar Snap Peas (Frozen peas can be substituted); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Substitute: red onions for sharper taste)

As I sat munching on a refreshing salad the other day, I realized how much a simple dish can lift your mood, especially on a busy afternoon. This Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing is the perfect solution for those meal prep days, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite. It’s remarkably easy to whip up, whether you're hosting friends or just looking for a satisfying solo lunch. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a nutty dressing, it’s not just vegetarian but a feast for the eyes too! You can customize it with your favorite proteins, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Curiosity piqued yet? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why is this crispy rice salad irresistible?

Vibrant, Fresh Flavors: The combination of crunchy vegetables and nutty peanut sesame dressing creates a refreshing taste sensation that brightens any meal.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time. Perfect for busy days!
Customizable Delight: Whether you add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted veggies, this salad adapts to your preferences for endless variety.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Make-ahead friendly, it tastes even better as the flavors meld. Store the ingredients separately for easy, grab-and-go lunches!
Satisfying Crunch: The crispy rice adds a unique texture, making it a fun and satisfying salad that leaves you feeling good after every bite. You might also enjoy serving it alongside some Feta Avocado Salad for a delightful meal!

Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Ingredients

• Here’s the ingredient list for your delectable Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame dressing.

For the Rice

Day-Old Jasmine Rice – Provides the right texture and crispness; ensure it's well-dried for the best results.
Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and aids in achieving that perfect crispiness when frying the rice.

For the Dressing

Peanut Butter or Tahini – Forms the base of the dressing, stirring in delightful nutty flavors; use sunflower butter for a nut-free alternative.
Rice Vinegar – Adds needed acidity for balance; you can also substitute with lemon or lime juice for a zesty kick.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing beautifully; maple syrup is a great vegan substitute.
Grated Ginger – Adds aromatic warmth; fresh ginger is best, but powdered can work in a pinch.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Garnish for an added crunch and flavor burst.

For the Salad

Soy Sauce or Tamari – Provides umami and saltiness; choose tamari for a gluten-free option.
Chili Crisp – Offers heat and texture, but can be substituted with Sriracha for a milder flavor.
Green and Red Cabbage – Adds vibrant crunch and color; feel free to swap with bok choy or coleslaw mix as desired.
Cucumber – Contributes freshness; bell peppers can be a tasty substitute if you’re out.
Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch; any bell pepper color will do!
Carrots – Offers a sweet crunch; pre-grated or julienned carrots save you some prep time.
Sugar Snap Peas – Delivers a sweet, crisp bite; frozen peas work as a quicker substitute.
Green Onions – Enhances flavor with a mild onion note; red onions provide a sharper taste.

Enjoy crafting your Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame dressing, a recipe that's not just easy but also full of vibrant flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your air fryer or oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will ensure an easy cleanup and help the rice crisp up perfectly. Make sure to have all your ingredients ready nearby to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Season the Rice
In a large mixing bowl, combine your day-old jasmine rice with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili crisp. Stir well to ensure the rice gets evenly coated with the flavorful ingredients. The goal is to incorporate the seasoning, so the rice will crisp nicely when baked, giving the salad a delightful crunch.

Step 3: Bake the Rice
Spread the seasoned rice in an even layer onto your prepared baking sheet. Place it in the preheated oven or air fryer and bake for 16-18 minutes (or 40 minutes for the oven), until the rice becomes golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it, as you want it to achieve a lovely crispy texture, without burning.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing
While the rice bakes, prepare the peanut sesame dressing. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter (or tahini), rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Adjust the consistency by adding a little water if necessary, making sure it’s pourable but still thick enough to cling to the salad.

Step 5: Combine the Vegetables
In a large salad bowl, toss together the chopped cabbage, cucumber, red bell pepper, carrots, sugar snap peas, and green onions. The vibrant colors and crisp textures of the vegetables will provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy rice. Make sure to mix well so every bite includes a variety of vegetables.

Step 6: Add the Crispy Rice
Once your rice has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven or air fryer and let it cool slightly. Then, add the crispy rice to the bowl with the vegetables. This combination of textures will make your Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame truly enjoyable!

Step 7: Toss with Dressing
Drizzle the freshly whisked dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated. Adding the dressing just before serving helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables, ensuring your salad remains fresh and crunchy.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of flavor and crunch. Taste the salad and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately to share the delightful textures and flavors of this Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame dressing.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame dressing components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the salad vegetables (cabbage, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, sugar snap peas, and green onions) up to 3 days in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. The dressing can also be made up to 1 week ahead—simply whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy your salad, bake the rice and let it cool before combining everything; drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a vibrant and delicious meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame

Dive into a world of flavor paired perfectly with this delightful salad, elevating every meal into a culinary delight!

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, tender chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor, complementing the salad’s crunch beautifully. Pair with a tangy dipping sauce to enhance the overall experience.
Teriyaki Salmon: The sweet and savory notes of teriyaki glaze elevate the dish, creating a harmonious balance with the salad’s nutty dressing. This combination provides a memorable dining experience.
Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added sweetness and an extra layer of texture. Their caramelized edges contrast delightfully with the crisp salad.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup introduces a comforting umami flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh and crunchy elements of the salad. It wraps the meal in warmth and depth.
Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty grain complements the salad with additional fiber while offering a wholesome touch to the meal. Top with herbs for an aromatic twist!
Coconut Milk Rice: Sweet, creamy coconut rice provides a contrasting richness to the crunchy salad, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The mild sweetness is a perfect symphony with the peanut dressing.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with chilled sake for an authentic touch, or enjoy refreshing green tea to cleanse the palate between bites, making every mouthful delightful.
Fruit Sorbet: Finish off your meal with a light, fruity sorbet for a refreshing and sweet note. The coolness contrasts beautifully against the warm, crispy rice, rounding out the experience.

Choose these perfect pairings to take your Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame from a simple dish to an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame

Use Day-Old Rice: Always opt for day-old jasmine rice for the best crispiness. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and won’t crisp up well.
Hot Pan Requirement: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the rice; it helps achieve that crunchy texture. Avoid stirring too frequently during cooking to keep the rice clumping and crisping nicely.
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the nutrients and crispness of the vegetables, dress the salad right before serving. This keeps it fresh and vibrant.
Customize with Ease: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have available or your personal preferences. This Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame is incredibly versatile!
Store Separately: For meal prep, store salad ingredients and dressing separately in the fridge for up to three days. Combine just before enjoying for the best flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame

Fridge: Store the salad ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the vegetables.

Dressing: Keep the peanut sesame dressing in a sealed container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezer: While the crispy rice can be frozen for 1–2 months, keep in mind that the texture will change once thawed. It's best to prepare fresh rice before enjoying the salad.

Reheating: If you freeze the crispy rice, reheat it directly in the air fryer or oven until warm and crispy again. Combine with the fresh salad ingredients just before serving for the best results.

Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful salad with these creative twists that will make your flavor experience even more exciting!

Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a hearty boost. Each addition transforms this salad into a complete meal.
Veggie Swap: Replace the green and red cabbage with bok choy or a colorful coleslaw mix. This gives the salad a fresh crunch and an extra splash of color!
Crunchy Nuts: Toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews for a nutty texture. They’ll elevate the flavor and give a satisfying crunch.
Heat Level: Want more spice? Stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick that will fire up your taste buds.
Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for brightness. They bring a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of the dressing.
Fruit Boost: Consider diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast. Their tropical sweetness will surprise and delight!
Grain Options: Swap jasmine rice for quinoa or brown rice. This changes the dish's texture while adding different nutritional benefits, perfect for a hearty salad.
Quick Pickles: Try adding pickled radishes or carrots for a tangy contrast. The acidity balances perfectly with the peanut dressing, making every bite interesting.

Remember, the key to a great salad is what you love! You may also enjoy serving it alongside Spicy Korean Rice for an exciting meal experience. Enjoy crafting your custom creation!

Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best rice for my salad?
Absolutely! For this dish, day-old jasmine rice is ideal because it has dried out slightly and will crisp up beautifully. Avoid using sticky short-grain rice, as it doesn't provide the texture we're aiming for. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook your jasmine rice early, spread it out to cool on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for at least an hour to achieve the right texture.

Can I store leftover salad, and how long will it last?
Very! You can store the salad ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the vegetables crisp. The dressing can last up to a week in the fridge when stored in a sealed container. Just remember to combine everything right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How can I freeze the crispy rice?
You can freeze the crispy rice for up to 1-2 months. To do this, spread the baked crispy rice in a single layer on a baking sheet to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the rice directly in the air fryer or oven until it's warm and crispy again. This method helps revive that delightful crunch!

What should I do if my crispy rice isn't crispy enough?
No worries! If your crispy rice isn't as crunchy as you'd like, it could be due to moisture. To fix this, turn your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 90°C) and spread the rice on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently until it crisps up nicely. Ensure your pan is hot before adding the rice initially for the best results.

Are there any allergy considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! This salad contains peanuts and soy, both of which are common allergens. If you're cooking for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Always check specific brand ingredients for hidden allergens and consider using tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option if needed.