Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce is a vibrant, fresh, and healthy meal that’s perfect for anyone craving a nutrient-packed dish full of color, flavor, and texture. With a crunchy mix of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy peanut sauce, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. The creamy peanut sauce ties everything together and adds a rich, savory element that elevates the fresh ingredients to a whole new level.

Ingredients

Salad Bowls

• 4 cups shredded napa or green cabbage
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 2 cups cooked bulgur (see Tip)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium cucumber, chopped
• 1 cup canned whole beets, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Peanut Sauce

• ½ cup smooth natural peanut butter
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Salad:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded napa or green cabbage, chopped mint, chopped basil, cooked bulgur, red bell pepper, carrots, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, and canned whole beets. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the vegetables and herbs.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, honey, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Assemble the Salad Bowls:
   Divide the salad mixture into individual bowls. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the top of each salad bowl and toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
4. Garnish:
   Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each salad bowl for a crunchy, nutty finish.
5. Serve:
   Serve immediately, or refrigerate the salad bowls and sauce separately for later. This salad is perfect for meal prep!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 0 minutes (if the bulgur is pre-cooked)

Variations

• Add some protein to the salad with grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• For a crunchy texture, top the salad with roasted peanuts or cashews.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut sauce.
• Substitute the bulgur with quinoa, couscous, or rice for a different grain.
• Add more color and flavor with other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, radishes, or avocado slices.

Storage/Reheating

The salad ingredients can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the peanut sauce separately and only drizzle it over the salad right before serving to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy. The peanut sauce will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different grain instead of bulgur?

Yes, you can substitute bulgur with quinoa, couscous, rice, or even farro for a different texture.

2. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is already vegan! Just ensure that the peanut butter and soy sauce you use are free of animal products.

3. Can I use pre-cooked or frozen vegetables?

For best texture and flavor, fresh vegetables are recommended, but you can use frozen vegetables if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

4. How long will the peanut sauce last in the fridge?

The peanut sauce will last for up to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container.

5. Can I add meat to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, beef, or shrimp would make a great addition for extra protein.

6. How do I cook bulgur?

To cook bulgur, combine 1 part bulgur with 1.5 parts boiling water. Cover, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then fluff with a fork.

7. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.

8. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep the peanut sauce separate and add it right before serving.

9. How do I make the salad spicier?

Add a bit of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the salad or the peanut sauce for a spicy kick.

10. Can I use canned beets instead of fresh ones?

Yes, canned whole beets work perfectly fine in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces.

Conclusion

The Chopped Rainbow Salad Bowls with Peanut Sauce is a bright, refreshing dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. With its array of colorful vegetables, the hearty texture of bulgur, and the creamy, tangy peanut sauce, it’s a flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy a bowl full of vibrant goodness!

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