Thai-Inspired Peanut Slaw (Cold, Crunchy, Quick)

This vibrant slaw is proof that healthy doesn’t have to be boring. It’s crunchy, creamy, a little spicy, and packed with ingredients that support balanced blood sugar and reduce inflammation. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or meal-prep staple, this is the kind of salad you’ll actually crave.

You can throw it together in under 20 minutes, and it holds up beautifully in the fridge—making it ideal for busy weeks when you want real food fast.

Ingredients

For the Slaw:

• 4 cups shredded green or napa cabbage

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 3 scallions, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons natural peanut butter

• 1 tablespoon tamari or low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1–2 tablespoons warm water to thin, if needed

Optional Add-Ons:

• Crushed peanuts (for garnish and extra crunch)

• Grilled chicken or tofu (for a protein boost)

• Extra cilantro or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, tamari, rice vinegar, lime juice, ginger, and chili flakes until smooth. Add water a little at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency.

2. Toss the slaw: In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and toss well to coat everything evenly.

3. Add toppings: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and any additional toppings you like. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Diet Compatibility

This slaw is naturally gluten-free (if using tamari), dairy-free, and vegan when made without animal protein add-ins. It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, lime, and cabbage.

It’s a fantastic option for blood sugar balance due to the healthy fat in the peanut butter, fiber in the veggies, and protein add-ons like tofu or grilled chicken. It also works well in plant-based and low-glycemic meal plans.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This dish holds up surprisingly well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cabbage softens slightly, but the flavor deepens beautifully. For best texture, store the slaw and dressing separately if prepping in advance.

Leftovers make a great filling for lettuce cups, wraps, or rice bowls. Add a dash of lime or a spoon of peanut butter to reawaken the flavors before serving.

Final Notes

Cold, crunchy, and layered with flavor, this Thai-inspired peanut slaw is a fridge-friendly favorite that plays well with others. Try it once, and it just might end up in your regular rotation.

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