Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado Recipe

If you’re craving something crisp, fresh, and vibrantly flavorful, this Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s a dazzling mix of crunchy cabbage and carrots, zesty lime and fish sauce dressing, and creamy avocado that brings a luscious softness to every bite. This salad masterfully balances tangy, spicy, and sweet notes, all while being ridiculously easy to whip up and utterly satisfying. Trust me, once you try this Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado, you’ll be reaching for it again and again as the perfect light lunch or vibrant side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is what makes this Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado absolutely sing. Each element plays an essential role, whether it’s adding crunch, creaminess, or that signature bright Thai flair in every forkful.

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage: The crisp foundation that gives the salad its satisfying crunch and freshness.
• 1 cup grated carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely splash of color to brighten the bowl.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: For a juicy crunch and a pop of vibrant red, elevating the visual appeal.
• 3 green onions, sliced: These bring a sharp yet delicate onion flavor to keep things interesting.
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: The herbaceous, slightly citrusy notes that tie the whole salad together.
• 1 ripe avocado, diced: Creamy texture in every bite, balancing the bold flavors beautifully.
• ½ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped: Adds a satisfying nutty crunch and depth to every mouthful.
• 2 tbsp fish sauce: The salty, umami punch that’s key to authentic Thai flavor.
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice: Bursting with zing, this brightens up the dressing impeccably.
• 1 tsp sugar: Balances acidity and spice with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tsp Sriracha sauce: Adds a gentle kick of heat to wake up your taste buds.

How to Make Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by shredding your green cabbage and grating the carrots. Then, thinly slice the red bell pepper and chop the green onions. This mix of textures forms the crisp, colorful base of the salad and makes every bite exciting and fresh.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk together fish sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, sugar, and Sriracha in a small bowl. This vibrant dressing is what truly transforms simple veggies into a sensational Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado. Getting the balance right here is key – tangy, salty, slightly sweet, with a hint of heat.

Step 3: Toss It Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the prepped veggies along with the chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts. Pour the dressing over the top, then toss everything gently but thoroughly to make sure every shred and slice is beautifully coated.

Step 4: Add Avocado Last

Carefully fold in the diced avocado at the end to keep its creamy texture intact without mashing it. The avocado adds a heavenly richness that beautifully balances the zingy dressing and crisp veggies.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and deepens the taste, making it even more refreshing and cohesive on the palate.

How to Serve Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado

Garnishes

Elevate your salad by sprinkling extra chopped roasted peanuts on top for some extra crunch. Fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime can add brightness and freshness right before serving, making it look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a stand-alone light meal but also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial dinner. It’s also fantastic alongside sticky jasmine rice or crispy spring rolls if you’re aiming for a full Thai-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado in individual lettuce cups for a delightful finger food option at your next party. You can also pile it high in a hollowed-out bell pepper or avocado half to create an eye-catching and charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may darken slightly, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh or soon after preparing.

Freezing

Because of the fresh veggies and avocado, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture and flavor will suffer once thawed, especially the creamy avocado which becomes mushy.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as it will soften the crunchy vegetables and alter the vibrant flavors that make the Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado so special.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the fish sauce for a soy sauce or tamari-based alternative to keep the umami flavor without animal products. The salad remains just as vibrant and delicious.

What can I substitute for peanuts if I have allergies?

You can use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that satisfying crunch and nutty flavor without the allergy concerns.

How spicy is the salad with Sriracha?

The Sriracha adds a gentle, balanced heat that complements the flavors without overwhelming them. You can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer less spice.

Can I prepare the veggies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and shred the veggies a day in advance and store them in the fridge to save time. Just add the avocado fresh before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but always check your fish sauce or Sriracha labels if you have strict gluten sensitivities to be sure.

Final Thoughts

This Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado is truly a celebration of fresh flavors and textures packed into an easy, wholesome dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side to brighten up dinner, or a dish to impress friends, this salad checks every box. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with the magic it brings to your table!

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