Name: Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad for a Fresh, Crunchy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Snap Peas (Sliced on a bias for best flavor and texture); 1 cup Edamame (Frozen, blanched before use); 3 stalks Scallions (Can substitute with chives); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Can substitute with basil); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Rice wine vinegar can be substituted); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (Can substitute with sunflower seeds); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can be used for vegan option); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Fresh grated ginger recommended); 2 tablespoons Chili Crisp (Adjust quantity based on heat preference); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Avoid toasted sesame oil); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste)

As I tossed together the bright green snap peas and edamame, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—spring days spent in the garden, discovering fresh, raw flavors bursting with life. This Crunchy Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad comes to life with an irresistible dressing that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, making it the ideal dish for those warm afternoons. Quick to assemble and deliciously healthy, it serves beautifully as a light meal on its own or as a vibrant side next to your favorite teriyaki fish. With the crunch of fresh vegetables mingling with the inviting warmth of ginger and the kick of chili crisp, you’ll find this salad not only satisfies your cravings but also grants you a colorful escape to the season. Curious to explore the delightful variations and surprises this recipe holds? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Flavors: The blend of sweet and spicy in the chili crisp dressing elevates fresh snap peas and edamame to new heights.

Quick & Easy: This salad comes together in minutes, perfect for those busy days when you crave healthy yet delicious meals.

Crunchy Texture: Enjoy the delightful snap of each bite, making it a satisfying addition to any meal or a refreshing snack on its own.

Versatile Options: Whether enjoyed solo or as a side dish with teriyaki fish or grilled proteins, its flavor pairs beautifully with various cuisines.

Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this gluten-free delight fits seamlessly into light meal plans, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier.

Seasonal Freshness: With this salad, you get to celebrate fresh, seasonal produce that embodies the essence of the garden in every bite!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Snap Peas – Adds crunch and sweetness; make sure to slice them on a bias for the best flavor and texture.
Edamame – Provides protein and a chewy texture; frozen is fine; just blanch before use.
Scallions – Contributes a mild onion flavor; can be substituted with chives for a similar taste.
Cilantro – Adds fresh herbal notes; basil can be used as a substitute for those who dislike cilantro.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance flavors; rice wine vinegar can work as a substitute.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Add nutty crunch; substitute with sunflower seeds for allergy concerns.
Honey – Offers sweetness; maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
Ginger – Imparts warmth and spice; fresh grated ginger is recommended for the best flavor.
Chili Crisp – Gives the salad a spicy kick; adjust quantity based on heat preference.
Sesame Oil – Used for dressing; avoid toasted sesame oil, as it can overpower the fresh flavors.
Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste as needed.

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

Step 1: Blanch Edamame
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the frozen edamame and cook for 3 minutes until they are tender yet still bright green. Once done, drain the edamame in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.

Step 2: Prepare Snap Peas and Greens
While the edamame cools, wash the snap peas thoroughly under cool running water. Slice each snap pea diagonally on a bias to enhance their flavor and texture. In a large bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, blanched edamame, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle the mixture with lemon juice and toss gently to coat before setting aside.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a heat-proof bowl, mix together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, grated ginger, and chili crisp for your flavorful dressing. In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat until it starts to shimmer, about 1-2 minutes. Pour the hot oil over the mixture in the bowl to flash-cook the ginger and blend the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Salad
After the dressing has been prepared, pour it over the snap pea and edamame mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure an even coating of the dressing over the fresh ingredients. Sprinkle with kosher salt, adjusting the amount to taste, and serve immediately to appreciate the delightful crunch and freshness of the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Bring life to your dining table with complementary dishes that beautifully enhance this vibrant salad’s fresh flavors.

Grilled Teriyaki Salmon: The sweet and savory notes of teriyaki sauce elevate the spicy chili crisp, creating a harmony of flavors.
Pairing this aromatic fish dish with the salad ensures a delightful contrast of textures and freshness.
Coconut Rice: This creamy, subtly sweet coconut rice adds a wonderful richness that complements the salad’s crunch and spiciness.
The tropical undertone makes every bite a mini-vacation on your plate.
Sesame Crusted Tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu crusted with sesame seeds offers a delightful crunch that aligns perfectly with the salad.
It enhances the Asian-inspired flavors while adding a satisfying protein boost.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness carries a comforting warmth, balancing the salad’s refreshing spice.
The creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the crunchy vegetables, creating a filling meal.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These bite-sized delights filled with fresh veggies are an ideal crunchy companion to the salad.
Their crispy exteriors and flavorful fillings will create an engaging mix of contrasts on your plate.
Lemonade or Iced Green Tea: A glass of citrusy lemonade or refreshing iced green tea quenches the heat from chili crisp.
Both drinks harmonize with the overall freshness of the meal, making it an uplifting experience.
Mango Sorbet: If you’re craving something sweet to cap off the meal, mango sorbet offers a fruity and refreshing finish.
Its light, icy texture provides an inviting contrast to the crunch of the salad.

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Slice Snap Peas Correctly: Always cut snap peas on a bias; this enhances their sweetness and creates a beautiful presentation.
Maintain Crunch: Store salad components separately if prepping in advance to prevent the snap peas from wilting before serving.
Balance Spice: Adjust the amount of chili crisp to suit your heat preference—start with less, and you can always add more!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Choose the freshest snap peas and herbs available, as they greatly affect the salad’s overall taste and aesthetic appeal.
Vegan Alternatives: If you need a vegan option, feel free to substitute honey with pure maple syrup without compromising the sweet flavor in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Storage Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

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

Freezer: Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the salad components will deteriorate upon thawing.

Refrigerate Dressing: If you have extra dressing, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week. Shake well before using it again.

Prep Ahead: You can prepare individual ingredients a day in advance; just mix them together and add the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy weeknights. Most components can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance—simply blanch the edamame and slice the snap peas, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. You can also make the chili crisp dressing in advance; just store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before use. To serve, combine everything just before enjoying to ensure your salad stays fresh and vibrant. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures as if you’d made it from scratch just moments before!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Customize this delightful salad to make it your own with these fun and tasty variations!

Edamame Swap: Replace edamame with fresh green peas for a sweeter bite that shines in flavor.
Creamy Texture Boost: Add diced avocado for a rich, creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the crunch.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews to bring an extra layer of crunch and fabulous flavor to each mouthful.
Add Colors: Incorporate thinly sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for vibrancy and an inviting, colorful presentation.
Herb Change: Substitute cilantro with fresh basil for a completely new flavor profile; the sweet notes will shine with the spicy dressing.
Heat Adjustments: For an extra kick, toss in finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to amplify the heat!
Dressing Twist: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist that brings a different tangy vibe to the salad.
Fruity Addition: Consider adding diced mango or chopped apples to enhance sweetness and bring in natural fruity flavors for a delightful surprise.

For more vibrant side dishes, check out my Cucumber Mozzarella Salad or make a delicious pairing with Halloween Fruit Salad!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of snap peas should I choose for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, look for snap peas that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or are limp, as these are signs of over-ripeness. Slicing them on a bias will further enhance their sweetness and visual appeal.

How should I store leftover Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
To keep the snap peas and edamame crisp, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the salad from wilting.

Can I freeze the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of the components will suffer, turning mushy once thawed. Instead, I often prep the ingredients a day in advance and mix them together with the dressing right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch.

What can I do if the dressing is too spicy?
If you find the dressing to be too spicy, you can mellow it out by adding a little more honey or maple syrup to balance the heat. You can also dilute it with a splash of lemon juice or rice wine vinegar if you prefer a tangier touch.

Are there any dietary considerations when making this salad?
Absolutely! This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is gluten-free and vegetarian. If you have allergies, substitute toasted sesame seeds with sunflower seeds. For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup. Always ensure the ingredients you choose align with your dietary restrictions.