Name: Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad: A Crunchy Spring Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Snap Peas (Ensure they are fresh for the best flavor.); 1 cup Edamame (Use frozen, blanched before use.); 4 tablespoons Scallions (Substitute with red onions or green onions if needed.); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Omit for a less herbaceous flavor if desired.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Rice wine vinegar can be a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optionally, use other seeds if allergic.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can be a vegan substitute.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Fresh ginger is recommended.); 3 tablespoons Chili Crisp (Adjust the amount to taste.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Avoid toasted sesame oil to maintain freshness.)

As the sun starts to warm up the days, I find myself craving light, vibrant dishes that celebrate fresh produce. Enter the Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad—a delightful spring salad that brings the garden to your table with its colorful mix of snap peas and scallions, all drizzled with a spicy chili crisp dressing. What I adore about this salad is its effortless preparation; it’s not only quick to whip up but can also stand alone as a satisfying meal or accompany your favorite teriyaki fish. Packed with protein-rich edamame and that irresistible crunch from toasted sesame seeds, this salad is both nourishing and immensely satisfying. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your meal prep while enjoying the crisp flavors of spring, you’ll want to keep scrolling to discover how to make this fresh delight!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Freshness at Its Finest: The combination of snap peas and edamame creates a crunchy, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.

Spicy Twist: The chili crisp dressing adds a unique kick, making this salad anything but ordinary.

Quick to Prepare: In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious salad ready, perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it alone as a wholesome main or alongside grilled meats, like teriyaki-glazed fish, for a well-rounded meal.

Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is a great choice for vegetarians and health enthusiasts alike.

Meal Prep Friendly: This salad maintains its crunch, allowing you to enjoy it fresh even if stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Snap Peas – Adds a crisp texture; ensure they are fresh for the best flavor.
Edamame – Provides protein; you can use frozen edamame, blanched before use.
Scallions – Offers a mild onion flavor; substitute with red onions or green onions if needed.
Cilantro – Introduces fresh herb notes; omit for a less herbaceous flavor if desired.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to balance flavors; rice wine vinegar can be a good substitute.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Provides a nutty crunch; optionally, you can use other seeds if allergic.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing; maple syrup can substitute for vegan options.
Ginger – Enhances flavor depth; fresh ginger is recommended, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
Chili Crisp – Contributes spice and crunch; adjust the amount to taste for your perfect Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Sesame Oil – Used in the dressing for richness; avoid toasted sesame oil to maintain freshness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Step 1: Blanch the Edamame
Start by bringing a pot of water to a rapid boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and toss in the frozen edamame. Cook for about 3 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain the edamame in a colander and quickly rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps retain their firmness and vibrant color in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Snap Peas
Next, wash your fresh snap peas under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel, then thinly slice them on a bias for a lovely presentation and enhanced flavor. Aim for slices about a quarter-inch thick. This step adds a delightful crunch and aesthetic appeal to your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 3: Combine the Greens
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, blanched edamame, chopped cilantro, and finely sliced scallions. Use a gentle folding motion to mix the ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of colors and textures. The blend of these fresh greens forms the vibrant base of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a heat-proof bowl, mix together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp. In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully pour the hot oil over the mixture in the bowl, watching for a sizzle as it activates the flavors. Stir well to fully combine all the elements into a delicious dressing for your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Finally, pour the fragrant dressing over the salad mix in your bowl. Toss everything together gently to ensure that each piece of snap pea and edamame is coated thoroughly in the dressing. Taste and adjust the salt as needed, then serve immediately for the best crunch. Your vibrant Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is now ready to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Freshness Matters: Use the freshest snap peas you can find to ensure the best flavor and crunch in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Perfectly Blanched Edamame: Blanching is key; avoid overcooking to keep edamame firm and vibrant. This step ensures a delightful texture contrast.
Slicing Technique: Slice snap peas on a bias for enhanced flavor release and presentation. This simple trick elevates the dish’s appeal.
Dressing Timing: For meal prep, store the salad and dressing separately until serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Spice to Taste: Adjust the amount of chili crisp according to your spice preference, ensuring the dressing adds a kick without being overpowering.

How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until serving; this prevents sogginess.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the snap peas and edamame may become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

Leftovers: If you have leftover dressing, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Use it on other salads or dishes to add a spicy kick.

Reheating: This dish is best served cold and does not require reheating. Enjoy it straight from the fridge to retain its crunchy goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salads are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the snap peas and edamame up to 24 hours in advance; simply blanch the edamame and slice the snap peas, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. For the dressing, mix all ingredients (except the sesame oil), store it separately, and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the sesame oil, pour it over the dressing, and toss everything together. This way, you’ll have a fresh and delicious salad ready to enjoy in no time!

What to Serve with Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this vibrant salad with delicious sides that enhance its fresh and spicy flavors.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy and slightly sweet, this chicken complements the salad’s crunch with soft, smoky flavors.
Sticky Rice: Sticky rice adds a delightful chewy texture, soaking up any extra chili dressing for a satisfying bite.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Zesty shrimp pair beautifully with the salad, adding a burst of flavor and protein that keeps it hearty.
Sautéed Bok Choy: The tender greens provide a mild earthiness, balancing the spice of the chili crisp while adding a bit of crunch.
Chilled Ginger Melon Soup: This refreshing soup enhances the meal’s lightness and provides a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the salad.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly drink that lifts your spirits and cleanses the palate, making it a perfect match for this vibrant salad experience.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this salad to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Protein Boost: Add crispy tofu or grilled chicken for a hearty alternative. It transforms this salad into a satisfying main dish.
Nutty Crunch: Include chopped peanuts or cashews for an additional layer of texture and flavor. They add a delightful crunch that complements the snap peas beautifully.
Heat Level: For a spicier twist, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha into the dressing. This brings an extra kick to each bite, perfect for heat lovers!
Vegan Option: Substitute honey with maple syrup in the dressing for a completely vegan-friendly version without losing sweetness. It makes sharing with everyone a breeze.
Grains Galore: Serve this salad over a bed of quinoa or couscous for added heartiness. The grains soak up the dressing beautifully, making each mouthful irresistible.
Herb Harmony: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, swap it for fresh mint or basil. Each herb brings a unique freshness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Flavor Twist: Experiment with adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame soy dressing for a umami kick. It perfectly complements the chili crisp and adds another element of flavor.

You can enjoy this Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad as a standalone meal or pair it with something delightful like Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos for a feast that’s bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to keep things refreshing with a side of Fruit Salad Refreshing. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best snap peas?
Absolutely! When selecting snap peas, look for bright green pods that are firm and smooth. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel limp, as these indicate they are past their prime. Fresh snap peas should have a sweet, crisp flavor, which really enhances your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

How should I store the salad, and how long does it last?
Great question! Store the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. To maintain that delightful crunch, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This simple step prevents sogginess and keeps your salad fresh and vibrant!

Can I freeze the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Very good inquiry! It’s best not to freeze this salad, as both snap peas and edamame can become mushy when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh right away for the best texture and flavor experience. If you do have leftover dressing, however, you can refrigerate it for up to a week and use it on other salads or dishes.

What if I have leftovers of the dressing?
If you find yourself with some leftover dressing, don’t worry! It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. I often use it to spice up other salads or even drizzle it over grilled vegetables. It brings that delightful chili kick to any dish!

Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly and packed with protein from the edamame, making it a great option for vegan diets if you substitute honey with maple syrup. If someone has nut allergies, be cautious with the toasted sesame seeds and consider using sunflower seeds or omitting them based on dietary needs. Always check ingredient sources to ensure they align with any personal allergies.