Name: Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad for Spring Freshness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Snap Peas (sliced on a bias); 1 cup Edamame (frozen and blanched); 1/4 cup Scallions (chopped); 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped, optional); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (or rice wine vinegar); 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Ginger (freshly grated); 2 tablespoons Chili Crisp (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds; 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (heated until shimmering)

Springtime is here, and with it comes a celebration of vibrant flavors and fresh produce! One delightful way to embrace the season is through my Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad. Bursting with the crunchy goodness of snap peas and scallions, this salad not only feels like a refreshing breeze on a warm day but also serves as an excellent companion for light dinners or picnics. Whipping it up takes just minutes, and best of all, it’s both light and satisfying, ensuring you enjoy the benefits of seasonal veggies without missing out on flavor. Ready to elevate your salad game and impress your family or guests? Let’s dive into this colorful, crunchy dish!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Bursting with Flavor: This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad delivers a punchy, zesty dressing that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of fresh snap peas.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, you can serve this vibrant dish in just minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it as a refreshing side with grilled proteins or combine it with your favorite grains for a delightful main course, just like the Mexican Quinoa Salad.

Seasonal Freshness: Celebrate spring by featuring seasonal produce that highlights bright colors and flavors, ensuring every bite is a delicious reminder of warmer days ahead.

Healthy & Satisfying: Packed with fiber and plant-based protein from edamame, this salad keeps you feeling full without weighing you down, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Snap Peas – Bright, crunchy, and packed with sweetness; slice on a bias to enhance flavor.
• Edamame – Provides a protein boost; opt for frozen and blanched to keep color vibrant.
• Scallions – Add a fresh, mild onion flavor; always choose the freshest option for the best taste.
• Cilantro – Offers bright herbaceous notes; feel free to skip if cilantro isn’t your favorite!

For the Dressing
• Lemon Juice – A zesty pop of acidity to balance the salad’s sweetness; rice wine vinegar works as a great substitute.
• Honey – Sweetens the dressing and balances the heat; switch to maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Ginger – Freshly grated ginger adds a delightful zing; you can leave it out if a milder flavor is preferred.
• Chili Crisp – Infuses a spicy kick and deep flavor; adjust to your taste for the perfect heat level.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds nutty flavor and crunch; essential to completing your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
• Sesame Oil – Heat until shimmering for optimal dressing flavor; choose regular sesame oil for freshness, avoiding toasted versions.

Get ready to whip up this vibrant and crunchy salad that’s perfect for welcoming the joys of spring!

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

Step 1: Blanch Edamame
Fill a pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the frozen edamame and cook for about 3 minutes until they float to the surface, indicating doneness. Drain them promptly and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, preserving their vibrant green color for the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 2: Prepare Snap Peas
Rinse the snap peas under cool running water, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Slice each pea on a bias to enhance their visual appeal and texture. Transfer the cut snap peas to a large serving bowl, and mix in the blanched edamame, chopped scallions, and cilantro, ensuring everything is well-distributed for this fresh spring salad.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine toasted sesame seeds, honey, grated ginger, and chili crisp to create a flavorful dressing. Heat sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until it shimmers lightly, then swiftly pour it over the mixture. This process will flash-cook the ginger, releasing its aroma, and ensure a delightful kick in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 4: Combine
Pour the hot dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl, allowing the warmth to gently wilt the scallions and infuse the flavors. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish, then season with a pinch of salt. Using salad tongs, toss everything together gently until the snap peas and edamame are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once combined, your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is ready to shine! Serve it immediately to enjoy its crispness, either as a standalone dish or alongside grilled proteins like teriyaki fish or crispy rice for an added layer of crunch. This salad is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the snap peas and scallions.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the delicate texture of the snap peas and scallions; they can become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: If you have leftover dressed salad, best to enjoy it cold. For a fresh taste, you can quickly toss in extra raw snap peas or scallions before serving.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the salad ingredients and store them separately from the dressing to keep everything fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to serve your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the freshness and crunch of the salad beautifully.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Adds savory sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the salad’s zesty dressing. A great protein choice for a balanced meal.
Crispy Rice Cakes: Their crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the salad, creating a satisfying bite. They also absorb the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: This light, fluffy side infuses a touch of citrus that echoes the salad’s lemon notes, making it a refreshing complement.
Seared Salmon: The rich, flaky fish pairs beautifully with the crisp snap peas and adds a satisfying layer of protein to your table.
Fried Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu absorbs the chili crisp flavor while adding a heartiness that enhances the meal experience.
Cucumber Mint Yogurt Dip: Creamy and refreshing, this dip provides a cooling effect that balances the kick of the salad. Serve with pita chips for a delightful crunch.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing beverage that cleanses the palate and complements the vibrant flavors of the salad. Perfect for warm spring days!
Fresh Berry Tart: End your meal on a sweet note with a fruity dessert that mirrors the salad’s lightness and freshness. The tartness of the berries is simply divine!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the salad, amplifying its bright and refreshing tones while offering a delightful pairing.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to incorporate your own twist into this delightful salad and make it your very own!

Nut-Free: Omit the sesame seeds and instead mix in some sunflower seeds for crunch. Their mild flavor pairs beautifully with the salad.
Greens Addition: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula for added color and nutrients. This will give the salad a delightful earthy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you crave more heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance to bring a fiery surprise!
Creamer Texture: Substitute half of the snap peas with diced avocado for a creamier texture that complements the crunch. It’s a delicious contrast!
Vegan Option: Swap honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version of the dressing without sacrificing sweetness.
Herb Swap: Use fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a fresh twist. These herbs will bring a different aromatic experience that’s equally refreshing.
Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to turn the salad into a heartier main dish. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a complete meal!
Extra Crunch: Include chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch. They enhance the overall texture while adding a nutty flavor.

This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is perfect for an easy light lunch or a side dish, and you can always experiment with it for unique combinations. It would also shine alongside dishes like the colorful Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli or even the zesty Street Corn Salad. Enjoy the journey of flavors as you customize and create your masterpiece!

Make Ahead Options

These Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salads are a dream for meal prepping! You can chop the snap peas, scallions, and cilantro up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Blanch the edamame and refrigerate it separately; this will keep its color vibrant. When you’re ready to serve, mix the prepped veggies with your dressing (prepared just before serving to maintain the fresh flavors). This quick prep not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures the salad retains its delightful crunch and brightness! Enjoy this fresh, make ahead option that still feels restaurant-quality.

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest snap peas and scallions to elevate the flavor of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.
Blanching Edamame: Ensure you blanch the edamame quickly to maintain their vibrant color and tender texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy result.
Chili Crisp Balance: Adjust the amount of chili crisp based on your heat preference. Start with a smaller amount, then gradually increase for a personalized kick.
Dressing Ratio: Make the dressing just before serving for maximum flavor. If you need to store it, keep it separate to preserve crunch in your salad.
Creative Add-ins: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Add nuts or other veggies like radishes for extra crunch and layers of flavor in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe snap peas?
Look for vibrant green snap peas that are firm and smooth to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or wrinkles, which indicate they’re past their prime. Fresh snap peas should snap easily when bent—this ensures crispness and freshness for your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

What is the best way to store leftover salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s crucial to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the snap of the peas and other fresh ingredients. Simply toss them together right before serving to revive the salad’s crunch!

Can I freeze the prepared salad?
Freezing the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is not recommended due to the delicate nature of snap peas and scallions. They can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze individual ingredients like edamame before use; just blanch them first, then freeze for up to 3 months.

What if my dressing is too spicy or sweet?
If your dressing ends up too spicy, you can balance it by adding more honey or a pinch of sugar. For sweetness, if it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice for tanginess. It’s all about finding the perfect balance to suit your palate; feel free to adjust seasonings gradually until it feels just right.

Can I make this salad for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup in the dressing. If someone is allergic to sesame, swap sesame oil with olive oil and omit sesame seeds. Just make sure all ingredients work for everyone’s dietary needs without compromising the vibrant flavor of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad!