Spicy Thai Carrot Ribbon Salad with Peanut Sauce

I love dishes that pack serious flavor with minimal effort, and this Spicy Thai Carrot Ribbon Salad with Peanut Sauce is one of my go-to favorites.

It’s bold, zesty, and totally addictive—made with silky carrot ribbons tossed in a creamy, spicy peanut-lime dressing.

Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a BBQ side, or part of a Thai-inspired dinner, this salad brings heat, crunch, and serious personality to the table.

The salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, featuring a delightful mix of flavors from fresh lime juice, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup.

The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a kick, while chopped salted peanuts and fresh cilantro provide texture and freshness.

Jump to Recipe

What is a Carrot Ribbon Salad?

Carrot ribbon salad is made by shaving carrots into long, thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler.

These soft curls are perfect for soaking up sauces and dressings, offering a delicate texture and striking presentation.

It’s a simple way to elevate humble carrots into something truly beautiful and satisfying.

Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Salad

The Spicy Thai Carrot Ribbon Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

With its vibrant orange carrot ribbons, this dish showcases the beauty of peeled large carrots, which are transformed into delicate strands that add a delightful crunch.

The creamy peanut sauce, made from smooth peanut butter, fresh lime juice, and soy sauce, coats the carrots perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

To enhance the taste, a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup balances the savory elements, while red pepper flakes introduce a subtle kick that elevates the overall experience.

This salad is not just about taste; it’s also about texture, with chopped salted peanuts providing a satisfying crunch and chopped fresh cilantro adding a burst of freshness.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing this salad is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights.

In just about 10 minutes, you can have a colorful and nutritious dish ready to serve.

Start by using a vegetable peeler or spiralizer to create the carrot ribbons, placing them in a large bowl to catch all the flavors.

Next, whip up the creamy peanut sauce by whisking together the smooth peanut butter, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.

If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of water can help achieve the desired consistency.

Combining Flavors for a Perfect Dish

Once the peanut sauce is ready, pour it over the carrot ribbons and toss until every strand is evenly coated.

This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that each bite is packed with taste.

Transfer the salad to a serving platter, and for the finishing touch, sprinkle it with chopped salted peanuts and fresh cilantro.

This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile, making it a dish that’s sure to impress.

Recipe Highlights

This spicy Thai salad is anything but boring. The tender carrot ribbons are coated in a rich peanut dressing infused with lime juice, garlic, and chili flakes for just the right kick.

Garnished with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and visual appeal.

Perfect as a no-cook side or light meal, it’s vegan, gluten-free (with tamari), and full of vibrant energy. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Highlights:

• No cooking required
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• Bold Thai flavors with a spicy-sweet balance
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• Crunchy, creamy, and tangy all at once
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• Vegan and gluten-free adaptable
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• Ready in under 15 minutes

Ingredient Notes

• Carrots – Use large, firm carrots for easier peeling into ribbons and maximum crunch.
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• Peanut Butter – Smooth peanut butter creates the rich, savory base for the Thai-style dressing.
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• Lime Juice – Adds tangy brightness to balance the creamy peanut butter.
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• Soy Sauce – Provides a salty, umami layer. Use tamari for gluten-free.
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• Honey or Maple Syrup – Adds gentle sweetness to round out the heat.
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• Garlic – Freshly grated for savory depth.
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• Red Pepper Flakes – Bring the heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
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• Salted Peanuts – Crushed on top for a satisfying crunch.
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• Cilantro – A fresh, herby finish that brightens the entire salad.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Create Carrot Ribbons
   Peel carrots, then use a vegetable peeler to shave them lengthwise into ribbons. Place in a bowl and set aside.
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2. Make the Peanut Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, grated garlic, red pepper flakes, and a splash of warm water until smooth.
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3. Toss the Salad
   Pour the dressing over the carrot ribbons. Toss gently until the carrots are evenly coated.
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4. Garnish and Serve
   Top with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.

Its fresh and zesty nature complements a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

For those looking to add more protein, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or tofu, which can enhance the overall nutritional value while keeping the dish light and refreshing.

This spicy Thai carrot salad works beautifully with:

• Fresh spring rolls or lettuce wraps
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• Grilled chicken skewers or tofu satay
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• Shrimp fried rice or Pad Thai
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• Cucumber salad or cabbage slaw
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• A cold beer or Thai iced tea

Nutrition and Health Benefits

This Spicy Thai Carrot Ribbon Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, making it a guilt-free option for those mindful of their intake.

The fresh ingredients contribute to a healthy diet, with carrots providing essential vitamins and minerals, while the peanut sauce adds healthy fats and protein.

This salad is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor.

A Colorful Presentation

Presentation plays a vital role in the enjoyment of any dish, and this salad does not disappoint.

The vibrant colors of the carrot ribbons, combined with the creamy peanut sauce and the green of the cilantro, create a visually stunning dish that is sure to catch the eye.

Serving it on a rustic wooden table, accompanied by a lime cut in half, adds to the fresh and zesty atmosphere, making it perfect for gatherings or casual family dinners.

This salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to both the cook and the diners.

Tips for the Best Spicy Thai Carrot Ribbon Salad with Peanut Sauce

Use fresh, firm carrots to get the best ribbons. Always taste the dressing before adding it to the salad—you want the right balance of spice, sweetness, and acidity.

If your peanut butter is thick, warm it slightly or thin the dressing with extra lime juice or water. For more heat, add sriracha or a pinch of cayenne.

Storage of Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The carrots will soften slightly but stay flavorful.

Stir gently before serving. Do not freeze.