Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chickpea Thai Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and protein-packed dish that’s both vegan and gluten-free. It combines fluffy quinoa, hearty chickpeas, crisp veggies, and a zesty Thai-inspired peanut dressing for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light lunch, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

quinoachickpeascarrots (shredded or julienned)red bell peppercucumberred cabbage (shredded)green onionscilantro (optional)peanuts (chopped, for garnish)sesame seeds (optional)

For the Thai peanut dressing:

peanut buttersoy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)maple syruplime juiceginger (grated)garlic (minced)rice vinegarwater (to thin)

directions

Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool completely.

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, shredded carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, cabbage, green onions, and cilantro.

In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and water until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.

Top with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds just before serving.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time (for quinoa): 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.

Add edamame or tofu for extra protein.

Include mango or pineapple for a sweet twist.

Use spiralized veggies instead of shredded for a fun texture.

Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha in the dressing.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served cold—no reheating needed.Perfect for meal prep as the flavors deepen over time.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, just rinse and drain them well.

Is the dressing spicy?

Not by default, but you can add chili for heat.

Can I make this nut-free?

Use sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts.

What type of quinoa works best?

White or tricolor quinoa both work great in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making in advance—just keep the dressing separate until serving if preferred.

Is this salad filling enough as a meal?

Absolutely, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

Leave it out or replace with fresh basil or mint.

Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Sure, just make sure it’s Thai-style and preferably peanut-based.

Is this freezer-friendly?

No, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Can kids eat this?

Yes, just adjust spice levels in the dressing to their preference.

Conclusion

Easy Chickpea Thai Quinoa Salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that brings together wholesome ingredients with bold Thai flavors. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying salad. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is a go-to favorite that delivers every time.