Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a delicious and vibrant way to eat healthy, these Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce have got you covered. With crunchy, colorful veggies and a creamy, zesty peanut sauce, these bowls are bursting with flavor and nutrition. They make a perfect lunch, light dinner, or even a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Quick to make—ready in under 25 minutes, including prep!
- Packed with texture and crunch from fresh, raw veggies.
- Customizable and great for meal prep or busy weekdays.
- Vegan, gluten-free, and loaded with protein and fiber.
- The creamy peanut sauce balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors perfectly.
Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- ½ cup shelled edamame (steamed)
- ½ cup thinly sliced green onions
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ⅓ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (for topping)
- Optional: 1 avocado, sliced
- For the Peanut Sauce:
- ⅓ cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons warm water (to thin as needed)
How to Make Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
Chop or shred all your vegetables—cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, and green onions. Steam your edamame for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Arrange everything by color for that stunning rainbow effect!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup or honey, and sriracha. Add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is smooth and pourable. Taste and adjust flavors as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
Divide the prepared veggies, edamame, and cilantro among bowls. Drizzle generously with peanut sauce. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and add avocado slices if using.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Toss gently to coat in the dressing, or keep the components layered for a show-stopping presentation. Enjoy fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor!
Notes for Cooking Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
- If prepping in advance, store peanut sauce and veggies separately to keep everything crisp.
- Add extra protein like grilled tofu or chicken for a heartier option. Check out [Serious Eats’ protein tips](https://www.seriouseats.com/how-to-add-protein-to-salads-5071155).
- For best results, use high-quality, natural peanut butter—read more at [The Spruce Eats: All About Peanut Butter](https://www.thespruceeats.com/peanut-butter-nutrition-4163493).
Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce Variations
- Sesame-Ginger Rainbow Bowls: Swap peanut sauce with a sesame-ginger dressing and add mandarin oranges.
- Quinoa Power Bowls: Add 1 cup cooked quinoa for extra protein and fiber.
- Crunchy Noodle Bowls: Toss with crispy rice noodles or ramen for added crunch.
Required Equipment for Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Vegetable peeler or shredder
- Mixing bowls
- Small whisk or fork (for the sauce)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
Store undressed, chopped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce in a separate jar for up to 5 days; stir before using. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately but can be kept for up to 24 hours (the veggies may soften).
Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
- Serve with a side of jasmine rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Pair with a light, citrusy white wine or sparkling water.
- Add grilled tofu or shrimp for extra protein.
Pro Tips for Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
- Taste the sauce and adjust the lime or sriracha for your perfect balance of tang and heat—learn more about balancing flavors at [Bon Appétit Flavor Guide](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/flavor-balancing).
- Chill your vegetables before serving for maximum crispness and refreshment.
- Toss just before serving to keep textures sharp and the salad looking vibrant.
FAQ About Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce
- Can I make these bowls ahead of time for meal prep?
- Absolutely! Just store veggies and dressing separately and combine just before eating for the freshest results.
- What's the best substitute for peanut butter in the sauce?
- For a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter or tahini; the flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.
- How can I add more protein to Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce?
- Top your salads with grilled chicken, tofu, tempeh, or a scoop of cooked lentils to boost protein.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4 bowls
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ⅓ cup roasted peanuts
- For the peanut sauce:
- 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, diced red bell pepper, and sliced cucumber.
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2Add the chopped fresh cilantro and roasted peanuts to the bowl with the vegetables.
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3In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and warm water until smooth and creamy.
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4Pour the peanut sauce over the chopped vegetables and gently toss everything together until well coated.
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5Divide the salad into 4 bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra peanuts or cilantro if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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