Name: Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad for a Bright Spring Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sugar Snap Peas (Provides crunch and sweetness; keeping them raw ensures maximum freshness.); 1 cup Edamame (Adds protein and creaminess; substitute with fresh green peas if you're out.); 1 bunch Scallions (Offers a mild onion flavor; if they're unavailable, regular onions can do the trick.); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Enhances freshness; omit if not preferred or use parsley as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Brings acidity and brightness; rice wine vinegar is a good alternative if necessary.); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (Delivers a nutty flavor and crunch; pepitas (pumpkin seeds) make a tasty switch.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Provides the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the spice; maple syrup serves as a vegan alternative.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Infuses a fragrant warmth; using fresh ginger is recommended for optimum vibrancy.); 2 tablespoons Chili Crisp; 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Adds rich depth; for sesame allergies, regular olive oil works well.)

As I tossed the vibrant greens into a bowl, a whiff of fresh ginger and the spice of chili crisp filled the kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is my go-to dish for those sun-soaked days when I crave something light yet satisfying. Bursting with the freshness of snap peas and scallions, it’s a refreshing spring salad that’s both vegetarian and a true crowd-pleaser. The sweet and spicy dressing, enhanced by toasted sesame seeds, makes each bite feel like a little celebration. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up—perfect for a quick meal or as a stunning side at your next BBQ. Are you ready to bring some spring flavor to your table?

Why is this salad so refreshing?

Vibrant Ingredients: The Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad bursts with the freshness of crunchy snap peas and sweet scallions, bringing spring right to your plate.
Quick Preparation: Whipping this salad up takes mere minutes, ideal for those busy evenings or impromptu gatherings.
Flavor Fusion: A delightful blend of sweet honey and spicy chili crisp creates a dressing that’s simply irresistible, making every bite feel like a treat.
Versatile Serving: Serve it solo, or pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal. You could even enjoy it alongside a lovely Peach Feta Salad for an even more vibrant spread!
Meal Prep Friendly: Keep the salad components and dressing separate for easy make-ahead meals—perfect for lunch boxes or last-minute dinners.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Sugar Snap Peas – Provides crunch and sweetness; keeping them raw ensures maximum freshness.
Edamame – Adds protein and creaminess; substitute with fresh green peas if you’re out.
Scallions – Offers a mild onion flavor; if they’re unavailable, regular onions can do the trick.
Cilantro – Enhances freshness; omit if not preferred or use parsley as a substitute.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice – Brings acidity and brightness; rice wine vinegar is a good alternative if necessary.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Delivers a nutty flavor and crunch; pepitas (pumpkin seeds) make a tasty switch.
Honey – Provides the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the spice; maple syrup serves as a vegan alternative.
Ginger – Infuses a fragrant warmth; using fresh ginger is recommended for optimum vibrancy.
Chili Crisp – The star of this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, delivering heat and umami; hot chili oil can substitute if needed, but adjust to taste.
Sesame Oil – Adds rich depth; for sesame allergies, regular olive oil works well.

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

Step 1: Prepare Edamame
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add frozen edamame and blanch for about 3 minutes until bright green. Drain the edamame and quickly rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside while you move on to the next step, ensuring they’re perfectly tender.

Step 2: Slice Snap Peas
Wash the sugar snap peas thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. On a cutting board, slice the snap peas on the bias to enhance their presentation and flavor, yielding thin, diagonal pieces. Combine the sliced peas in a large mixing bowl with the drained edamame, coarsely chopped cilantro, and sliced scallions for a colorful mix.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a heat-proof bowl, mix together the toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp to create a flavor-packed dressing. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. Once ready, carefully pour the hot oil over the mixture to flash-cook the ginger, releasing its aromatic essence for the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 4: Combine Salad
Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the bowl of prepared salad ingredients. Squeeze in the lemon juice for brightness, and season with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Using tongs, gently toss everything together until all the fresh ingredients are well coated with the spicy dressing, showcasing the vibrant colors of your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer the vibrant Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad to a serving platter or individual bowls for an inviting presentation. It’s best to serve immediately to maintain that delightful crunch. Feel free to pair it with grilled chicken, tofu, or a bed of sticky rice, making it a perfectly light meal or a standout side dish at your gatherings.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, making it your own with these delightful twists!

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a heartier meal. It transforms the salad into a satisfying main dish!
Dairy-Free: Substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. Both keep the sweetness without any animal products.
Flavor Explosion: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra crunch and a spicy kick. This not only adds color but also enhances the salad’s overall zest.
Add Crunch: Throw in roasted peanuts or cashews for an added crunch factor. The nutty flavor will complement the dressing beautifully.
Fresh Herbs Twist: Swap the cilantro for fresh mint or basil to create a different flavor profile. This is a fresh way to keep the salad exciting with each serving!
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate diced mango or citrus segments to enhance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast to the spicy dressing. The touch of fruit will brighten up the dish even more.
Extra Veggies: Consider adding shredded carrots or radishes for additional texture and color. These will lend a lovely crunch while amplifying the salad’s visual appeal.
Savory Spice: Adjust the heat level by either increasing the chili crisp or adding a touch of sriracha for a bolder flavor. Experimenting with your preferences can lead to incredible results!

If you’re after more spring salad inspiration, don’t forget to explore this Peach Feta Salad or try a refreshing Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Bias Cutting: Slice snap peas on the bias for enhanced flavor and visual appeal; it truly makes your salad pop!
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain that delightful crunch in your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, dress it right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Meal Prep Mindset: Keep dressing and salad components separate for efficient meal prep—this allows the freshest taste for up to two days in the fridge.
Freshness Swap: If you’re out of edamame, green peas or chickpeas make great substitutes for the same creamy finish!
Adjust the Heat: Start with a smaller amount of chili crisp in your dressing and add more to your liking—tweak it until it’s just right for your taste buds.

What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these complementary dishes that elevate the fresh flavors of spring.

Grilled Teriyaki Fish: The sweet soy glaze of teriyaki fish pairs beautifully with the spicy zest of the salad, enhancing every bite.
Coconut Rice: Its creamy texture provides a lovely contrast, making it a comforting side that complements the crunch of snap peas.
Sesame Tofu: The nutty flavor of crispy sesame tofu mirrors the toasted sesame seeds in the salad, creating harmony on the plate.

Consider enjoying your salad alongside these inviting options. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, vibrant sides, like buttery garlic bread or a refreshing fruit salad, can make your meal feel even more special.

Peach Feta Salad: A sweet and savory option, the creamy feta and juicy peaches yield a delicious pairing with spicy flavors.
Chilled Soba Noodles: Light and refreshing, these noodles add an enjoyable texture and can be dressed with a soy-based sauce to match your salad.
Iced Green Tea: Sip this lightly flavored beverage to cleanse your palate and enhance the fresh, zesty flavors of the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a refreshing meal with just a few finishing touches! You can prepare the salad components—sliced snap peas, edamame, cilantro, and scallions—up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. Keep the dressing separate, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped salad ingredients together, drizzle with the dressing, and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. Enjoy the ease of having a vibrant and delicious meal ready in no time!

How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Fridge: Store your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of the fresh vegetables can become mushy.

Meal Prep: Prepare the salad components ahead of time, but mix them with the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness and crunch.

Reheating: If you’ve prepped extra edamame, you can briefly warm it in the microwave before mixing it with the salad, but avoid heating the entire salad.

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sugar snap peas?
Absolutely! Look for sugar snap peas that are bright green and firm to the touch. They should feel crisp, and avoid any that have dark spots or appear limp, as these indicate they may be past their prime.

How should I store leftover salad?
To keep your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Remember to keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy—mix it right before you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad since freezing can make fresh vegetables mushy. However, if you’ve blanched edamame with leftovers, you can freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cook it again before serving.

What if my dressing is too spicy?
No worries! If your chili crisp dressing turns out too spicy, you can balance it by adding a bit of honey or more lemon juice. Mix a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired flavor. Alternatively, add a splash of olive oil to dilute the spice.

How can I adapt this salad for dietary restrictions?
The Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is quite adaptable! For a nut-free version, you can use pumpkin seeds instead of sesame seeds. If someone has a honey allergy, you can easily substitute with maple syrup. Just remember to always check the ingredient labels for any potential allergens!

What can I serve with this salad?
Very! This delightful salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, tofu, or even alongside a vibrant stir-fry. You can also serve it at summer picnics or BBQs as a refreshing side dish—it’s sure to impress your guests!