Imagine a salad that explodes with vibrant flavors, crunch, and an irresistible combination of textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Cilantro Snap Pea Salad with Peanuts and Fried Shallots is not just another side dish – it's a culinary adventure that brings the bold, fresh essence of Asian cuisine right to your plate. Packed with crisp snap peas, aromatic cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing, this recipe is about to become your new obsession that will impress dinner guests and elevate your home cooking skills.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups snap peas
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/2 cup fried shallots
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the snap peas by washing them thoroughly and trimming off the tough ends. Cut the snap peas diagonally into thin, elegant slices to enhance their texture and presentation.
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice and olive oil to create a bright, zesty dressing. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the flavors.
- Roughly chop the fresh cilantro leaves, ensuring some stems are included for added flavor and texture. Keep the cilantro leaves somewhat coarse for a rustic appearance.
- Lightly toast the roasted peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them, stirring constantly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced snap peas, chopped cilantro, toasted peanuts, and pre-made fried shallots.
- Pour the lime-olive oil dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates, ensuring the fried shallots and peanuts remain visible on top for visual appeal.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to maintain the crisp texture of the snap peas and the crunchiness of the peanuts and shallots.
Tips
- Snap Pea Perfection: Always choose fresh, bright green snap peas that are firm to the touch. Slice them diagonally for an elegant presentation and optimal texture.
- Toasting Technique: When toasting peanuts, use a dry skillet and keep them moving constantly to prevent burning. The goal is a golden, fragrant nut, not a charred one.
- Dressing Dynamics: Whisk your lime and olive oil dressing thoroughly to ensure a perfect emulsion that coats every ingredient evenly.
- Timing is Key: Prepare this salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of snap peas and the crunch of fried shallots and peanuts.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to adjust the amount of cilantro and peanuts to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Make-Ahead Hack: You can prep the ingredients separately and combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
