Name: Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad: A Crunchy Spring Sensation
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Sugar Snap Peas (Avoid frozen for best texture); 1 cup Blanched Edamame (Frozen works after blanching); 3 tablespoons Scallions (Can substitute with green onions); 1 handful Cilantro (Feel free to swap with parsley); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Rice wine vinegar can be substituted); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (Use plain seeds if allergies are a concern); 1 tablespoon Chili Crisp (Adjust based on your spice preference); 1 teaspoon Honey (Maple syrup can be a vegan alternative); 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (Ground ginger works if needed); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Avoid toasted sesame oil for freshness)

As I tossed the vibrant snap peas and scallions in my kitchen, the promise of spring felt palpable. This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness, bringing together sweet and spicy flavors in an irresistible combination. Perfect as a light meal or as a delightful side, this vegetarian-friendly salad offers not only a crunchy texture but also a balanced array of nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies! As you explore the layers of flavor within this crunchy delight, I can’t help but wonder: what unique twist will you add to make it your own?

Why is this salad a must-try?

Freshness in every bite: The snap peas provide a delightful crunch, making this salad a true springtime treat.
Balanced meal: With edamame as a protein source, this salad is not just delicious, but nutritious too.
Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste. Try adding avocado for creaminess or chickpeas for extra protein!
Quick prep: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it alongside teriyaki fish or as part of a picnic spread and watch it disappear! Not sure what to pair it with? Check out my Cucumber Salad Bacon or Chili Lime Flank for more ideas!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Snap Peas – Fresh sugar snap peas are key for crunch; frozen options may compromise texture.
• Edamame – Provides a protein boost; frozen works great after a quick blanch.
• Scallions – Adds gentle onion flavor and extra crunch; can substitute with green onions.
• Cilantro – Brightens flavor; feel free to swap with parsley for a different herbal note.

For the Dressing
• Lemon Juice – Balances the richness with acidity; rice wine vinegar can be a great substitute.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds nutty flavor and visual appeal; use plain seeds if allergies are a concern.
• Chili Crisp – This star ingredient provides heat and depth; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Honey – Offers sweetness to meld flavors; maple syrup can be a vegan alternative.
• Ginger – Fresh ginger is preferred for its bright flavor; ground ginger works if you’re in a pinch.
• Sesame Oil – Richness is vital in the dressing; avoid toasted sesame oil to preserve the freshness.

Enjoy this Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad as a fresh, vegetarian-friendly meal that’s as customizable as it is delicious!

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

Step 1: Blanch the Edamame
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the frozen edamame and blanch for about 3 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Once cooked, drain them and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and retain that bright color.

Step 2: Prepare the Snap Peas
Rinse the fresh snap peas under cool water and pat them dry. Slice them on a diagonal to enhance their shape and create beautiful presentation. In a mixing bowl, combine the snap peas, blanched edamame, chopped cilantro, and sliced scallions, making sure everything is well mixed for a colorful crunch.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat until it shimmers, but do not let it smoke. Carefully pour the hot oil over a bowl containing toasted sesame seeds, honey, freshly grated ginger, and chili crisp. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are fully combined into a fragrant dressing.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the flavorful dressing over the colorful vegetable mixture in the bowl. Generously season with salt and then gently toss everything together until the snap peas and edamame are coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust salt if necessary to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your vibrant Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad to a serving platter or bowl. This salad is best enjoyed immediately for maximum crunch, but it can also be paired deliciously with teriyaki fish or sticky rice. For a delightful meal, serve it fresh and watch as everyone enjoys this springtime treat.

What to Serve with Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

To elevate your dining experience, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the fresh and vibrant flavors of this crunchy salad.

Teriyaki Fish: The sweet and savory profile of teriyaki complements the spicy kick in the salad, creating a beautifully balanced meal.
Sticky Rice: Its subtle sweetness and chewy texture provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy snap peas.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken offers heartiness, balancing the freshness of the salad while adding protein to the meal.
Avocado Toast: The creamy richness of avocado toast adds a luxurious touch that contrasts nicely with the salad’s crispness.
Miso Soup: A warm, savory bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal, offering umami flavors that seamlessly blend with the salad.
Chilled Sake: This smooth, chilled drink enhances the overall flavor profile while adding a refreshing touch, perfect for a spring day.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrusy dessert like lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish, cleansing the palate with its bright flavor.
Pineapple Salsa: Serve alongside this zesty salsa for a sweet, tropical contrast that beautifully complements the salad’s spice.
Crunchy Spring Rolls: These crispy delights make for a fun finger food pairing, echoing the fresh ingredients of the salad.
Herbal Iced Tea: A fragrant herbal iced tea, perhaps with mint or hibiscus, adds a refreshing sip that heightens the dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad components are perfect for meal prep! You can blanch the edamame and slice the snap peas up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. If you want to prepare further, chop the scallions and cilantro ahead of time as well, but it’s best to add the herbs closer to serving for optimal freshness. Keep the chili crisp dressing separate and store it in the fridge; it can be prepared up to 3 days beforehand. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything and toss with the dressing for a bright and delightful salad that tastes just as fresh and delicious!

Expert Tips for Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh snap peas are essential for the best crunch. Avoid frozen peas as they can lose their texture and flavor.
Perfectly Blanch Edamame: Remember, blanch edamame for just 3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the salad.
Slice with Care: When cutting snap peas on a bias, ensure your knife is sharp for clean cuts, enhancing presentation and making the salad more appealing.
Dress Right Before Serving: To maintain the snap of the peas, dress the salad right before serving. Keep the dressing separate if you’re making it ahead.
Taste Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt and chili crisp according to your taste. Everyone’s spice tolerance varies, so find what works for you!
Customization: Feel free to explore substitutions! This Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad is versatile—experiment with different proteins or herbs to create your favorite variation.

How to Store and Freeze Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad

Room Temperature: This salad is best enjoyed immediately for the freshest taste and crunch. If left out, consume within 1 hour to maintain quality.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to ensure the snap peas stay crisp.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the snap peas and edamame can lose their texture.
Reheating: Enjoy this salad cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can quickly stir-fry it, but be mindful not to overcook the peas!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad, as there’s a delightful world of adaptations waiting for you!

Gluten-Free: Ensure your chili crisp is gluten-free. You can make the salad without sauces for a fresh herb blend.
Protein Swap: Chickpeas: Use canned chickpeas instead of edamame for a more substantial, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the crisp salad.
Creamy Addition: Avocado: Slice ripe avocado and fold it into the salad for a creamy texture that perfectly complements the crunch of the snap peas.
Texture Twist: Crispy Rice: Top your salad with crispy rice for an irresistible crunch that elevates every bite to new heights.
Herb Alternative: Parsley: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, swap it for fresh parsley. It adds a fresh, mild flavor while keeping the salad vibrant.
Sweetener Change: Maple Syrup: For a vegan alternative to honey, maple syrup works wonderfully to balance the salad’s spice profile.
Zesty Punch: Lime Juice: Substitute lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a zesty twist that brightens up the overall flavor profile.
Veggie Replacement: Fresh Peas: Replace edamame with freshly shelled peas for a burst of sweetness that’s perfect for spring.

For more salad inspiration, consider these delectable side dishes like my Cucumber Salad Bacon or the savory Corn Pasta Salad. Enjoy experimenting with flavors that excite your palate!

Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of snap peas should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh sugar snap peas are essential for that perfect crunch. I often find that frozen snap peas compromise texture and flavor. When you’re at the grocery store, look for bright, firm snap peas without dark spots or wilting.

How should I store leftovers of the salad?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to maintain the snap peas’ crispness. Just toss it all together right before you’re ready to eat!

Can I freeze the Chili Crisp Snap Pea Salad?
No, freezing this salad is not recommended. The snap peas and edamame lose their delightful texture when thawed, turning mushy. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, I recommend making the salad fresh when you can!

What should I do if I can’t find chili crisp?
Not to worry! You can make your own chili crisp by combining crushed red pepper flakes with hot oil and aromatics like garlic and shallots. If you want something simpler, a bit of sriracha mixed with sesame oil can work in a pinch too! Just adjust the amount to your desired spice level.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup. If you have any nut allergies, opt for plain sesame seeds instead of toasted ones for the dressing. Always double-check labels on packaged ingredients, especially like chili crisp, to ensure they’re allergy-safe.

How can I adjust the spice level to suit my taste?
Great question! To make the salad milder, reduce the amount of chili crisp used in the dressing. If you adore heat, consider adding fresh sliced chili or a sprinkle of extra chili flakes on top before serving. The more, the merrier when it comes to enjoying those spicy flavors!