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Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut-Chili Dressing (Vegan + High-Protein)


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  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A vibrant and satisfying vegan salad featuring crunchy fried rice patties, fresh vegetables, and a zesty peanut-chili dressing. Easy to make and perfect for a healthy meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Crispy Rice Patties:
  • 2 cups cooked short-grain sushi rice (day-old is best for crisping)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about ½ cup to 1 cup)
  • For the Peanut-Chili Dressing:
  • ⅓ cup smooth natural peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 12 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 12 tablespoons chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 23 tablespoons warm water, to thin
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • For the Salad:
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
  • ½ cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh mint
  • 23 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional additions: Edamame, roasted peanuts, sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. 1. Prepare the rice for frying: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rice with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly coated.
  2. 2. Form the rice patties: Press about ¼ cup of the rice mixture firmly into a circular patty, about ½ inch thick. Repeat with remaining rice.
  3. 3. Fry the rice patties: Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully fry patties for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  4. 4. Make the peanut-chili dressing: Whisk together peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Gradually add warm water until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasonings.
  5. 5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, carrots, red cabbage, cucumber, and red bell pepper. Add cilantro, mint, and green onions. Toss gently.
  6. 6. Serve the salad: Place dressed vegetables on plates, top with crispy rice patties, and drizzle with peanut-chili dressing. Garnish as desired.

Notes

Store dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Leftover crispy rice patties can be stored separately and reheated in a skillet or oven until crisp. Assemble salad just before serving to prevent wilting.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Vegan, Main Course
  • Method: Fried
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal (will vary based on portion size and exact ingredients)
  • Sugar: 8-15g
  • Sodium: 500-700mg
  • Fat: 25-35g
  • Carbohydrates: 40-55g
  • Fiber: 6-8g
  • Protein: 15-20g