Name: Delicious Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Jasmine Rice (preferably day-old); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (or vegetable oil); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce/Tamari (use tamari for gluten-free option); 1 tablespoon Chili Crisp (or Sriracha for heat); 3 cups Fresh Vegetables (such as cabbage, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, sugar snap peas, green onions); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish); 1/4 cup Peanut Butter/Tahini (can use tahini for sesame flavor); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar/Lime Juice (or apple cider vinegar as substitute); 2 tablespoons Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Ginger (fresh or ground)

There’s something magical about the crackle of crispy rice mingling with vibrant vegetables, and that’s exactly what this Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing delivers. The mouthwatering combination of textures—those crunchy rice clumps paired with fresh veggies—is a joyful celebration in every bite. Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also shines in meal prep. You can easily enjoy it for lunch throughout the week or impress guests at your next potluck. The nutty sesame dressing ties everything together perfectly, making it a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Ready to take your salad game to the next level? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Unmatched Flavor: The vibrant peanut sesame dressing envelops the crispy rice and fresh veggies, creating a taste explosion that captivates taste buds.

Flexibility: This recipe is highly customizable—swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.

Quick & Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Freshness Guaranteed: The crunchy texture stays intact, making it ideal for meal prep or packed lunches, just like our Cucumber Pasta Salad!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at picnics, potlucks, or dinner parties, this salad impresses everyone with its gorgeous colors and flavors. Dive into a bowl of joy today!

Crispy Rice Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Jasmine Rice – A perfect base for this crispy rice salad, day-old rice works best for achieving crunchiness.
Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps crisp up the rice; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Soy Sauce/Tamari – Imparts essential umami and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Chili Crisp – Brings delightful heat; Sriracha can be used instead for a similar kick, or omit it for a milder version.
Fresh Vegetables (cabbage, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, sugar snap peas, green onions) – Provides a wonderful crunch and vibrant color; switch out for seasonal favorites like radishes if you wish.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – For a crunchy garnish with extra flavor; can be omitted if desired.

For the Dressing

Peanut Butter/Tahini – The creamy base for the dressing; tahini offers a similar sesame flavor without peanuts.
Rice Vinegar/Lime Juice – Adds brightness and acidity to balance the dressing; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
Honey – Sweetens the dressing naturally; maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative in this crispy rice salad recipe.
Ginger (fresh or ground) – Adds a zesty kick to the dressing, enhancing its flavor profile.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a flavorful adventure with this delicious layered crispy rice salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing

Step 1: Prepare Rice
Preheat your air fryer or oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the heat is ready for crispy perfection. In a bowl, mix day-old jasmine rice with sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili crisp, making sure each grain is coated. Spread the mixture evenly on a lined baking tray, creating a single layer to promote even cooking.

Step 2: Bake Rice
Bake the rice for 16-18 minutes, stirring gently halfway through to break up any clumps and encourage even crispiness. Watch closely as the rice turns golden brown and crunchy—this is the key to achieving that delightful texture in your Crispy Rice Salad. Allow it to cool slightly after baking.

Step 3: Make Dressing
While the rice is baking, whisk together the dressing ingredients in a medium bowl. Combine sesame oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili crisp, and ginger. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich and flavorful peanut sesame dressing that will elevate the entire salad.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked crispy rice with your prepared fresh vegetables, such as cabbage, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, and sugar snap peas. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the top and gently toss everything together, ensuring an even coating of dressing on every crunchy bite of the Crispy Rice Salad.

Step 5: Serve
Before serving, garnish the salad with toasted sesame seeds to add an extra layer of flavor and crunch. This final touch is not only appealing but enhances the overall taste of your Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing. Serve immediately for the best textures, or enjoy it chilled for meal prep!

What to Serve with Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing

Indulge in a vibrant meal filled with delightful flavors and textures that perfectly accompany your crispy salad.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Succulent and smoky, these grilled delights add protein and a charred flavor, balancing the freshness of the salad.
Miso Soup: This savory broth brings warmth to the table, complementing the nutty dressing while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of the meal.
Spring Rolls: Fresh and crunchy, these rolls filled with veggies and herbs provide a refreshing bite that plays beautifully off the crispy textures.
Teriyaki Salmon: Sweet and umami-rich, this fish adds a delicious richness that contrasts with the salad’s lightness, making for an impressive combination.
Peanut Satay: Creamy and slightly spicy, the satay sauce echoes the peanut flavors in the dressing, creating a harmonious pairing that delightfully bridges the dishes.
Chilled Green Tea: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate and its subtle flavor profile complements the nutty notes of the salad without overwhelming it.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, opt for a refreshing sorbet that provides a sweet contrast to the savory salad, finishing the meal on a bright note.

Each of these pairings enhances the experience of your Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing, offering a well-rounded feast perfect for any occasion.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Rice Salad

Fridge: Keep leftover crispy rice salad components in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Store the crispy rice, vegetables, and dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crispy rice separately in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. When ready to use, reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Reheating: To restore that delightful crunch, reheat the crispy rice in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Combine with fresh veggies and dressing just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the crispy rice and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s completely cool before sealing to maintain that delightful crispiness. Additionally, chop your fresh vegetables ahead of time and keep them refrigerated in separate containers for optimal freshness. The peanut sesame dressing can be made and stored in a sealed jar for up to 1 week; just give it a good shake before using. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine the crispy rice and veggies, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently for a satisfying, convenient meal!

Expert Tips for Crispy Rice Salad

Perfect Rice Selection: Always use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky, leading to less crunch.
Baking Technique: Spread the rice evenly on a lined tray and avoid stirring too often while baking to ensure crispiness. The goal is to create golden, crunchy clumps!
Adjust Dressings to Taste: Peanut butter varies in thickness. Start with less liquid in your dressing and gradually add to find the perfect creamy consistency for your Crispy Rice Salad.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap in seasonal or favorite veggies to keep this salad exciting. The crunch from fresh produce is essential for a delightful bite.
Storage Smartly: To maintain freshness, store the components separately: keep the crispy rice, veggies, and dressing in the fridge and mix just before serving.

Crispy Rice Salad with Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by tweaking this delightful salad to suit your taste preferences!

Grain Swap: Substitute jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Both options offer a different texture, making this salad uniquely yours.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this salad into a hearty meal. Mix in cooked proteins right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and tahini in place of peanut butter for a tasty vegan-friendly dressing. The nuts and sweetness will still complement the vibrant veggies perfectly.
Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for an added crunch. This allows you to enjoy a more complex texture while introducing new flavors.
Heat Level: Adjust the spice by replacing chili crisp with Sriracha for a milder heat or by using fresh minced jalapeños for a delightful kick. Tailor it to fit your family’s taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint will elevate the salad’s flavors. Adding these aromatic herbs at the end enhances freshness, giving your dish a delightful burst of flavor.
Vegetable Variety: Swap out fresh veggies based on what’s in season. Think roasted sweet potatoes or grilled zucchini for a warm twist or colorful bell peppers to add visual appeal.

This salad not only captivates with its multitude of flavors but also encourages personalization. Try pairing it with delectable dishes like our Thai Peanut Chicken or as a bright side next to Crispy Rice Salad with Chili!

Quick Crispy Rice Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rice for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best results, use day-old jasmine rice. It’s less sticky and dries out a bit in the fridge, allowing for that delightful crispiness. If day-old rice isn’t available, you can cook fresh jasmine rice and spread it out on a tray to cool in the fridge for about 30 minutes before using it.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your crispy rice salad fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The crispy rice will stay crunchy for about 3 days, while the veggies can retain their freshness as well. It’s best to combine everything just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the crispy rice?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the crispy rice! Store it in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat the rice in an air fryer or oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes until it’s hot and crispy again. Just mix it with fresh vegetables and dressing before serving for the best taste!

What if my crispy rice isn’t turning out crunchy?
Very likely! Ensure that you’re using day-old rice and that your baking tray is hot enough before adding the rice. Spread the rice in a single layer and avoid stirring too frequently—this allows for even browning and crispiness. If your rice clumps together too much, gently break them apart midway through baking.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Definitely! This salad is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup. If you’re concerned about allergens, feel free to swap peanut butter for tahini to maintain that nutty flavor without the peanuts. For gluten-free needs, always use tamari instead of soy sauce. Enjoy this salad worry-free!