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+ servings
Patricia Krouse

Protein Packed Thai Pasta Salad

A vibrant, protein-rich Thai-inspired pasta salad with a creamy peanut-orange dressing, perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Thai, Vegetarian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup orange juice fresh tastes best
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter smooth or crunchy depending on texture preference
  • 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon liquid aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1–4 teaspoons sriracha, optional start small, then increase
For the Salad
  • 8 oz garbanzo bean rotini pasta chickpea pasta
  • 1 cup chopped cabbage green or red
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 4 scallions sliced

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the garbanzo bean rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, peanut butter, rice vinegar, liquid aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, and sriracha until smooth and emulsified.
  3. Place the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl. Add chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped cucumber, and sliced scallions.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything.
Serve
  1. Taste and adjust: add more sriracha for heat, more maple syrup if you want sweeter, or a dash of extra rice vinegar to brighten.
  2. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 16gFat: 10g

Notes

This salad works as a main or a hearty side; consider adding extra chopped peanuts, lime wedges, or toasted sesame seeds for added texture. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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