Name: Delicious Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Recipe You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Lime-Cilantro Dressing (Prepared in advance); 1 cup Thai Peanut Dressing (Prepared in advance); 4 cups Napa Cabbage (Cut into 1/4-inch strips); 2 cups Red Cabbage (Cored and chopped); 2 cups Carrots (Peeled and julienned); 1 cup Scallions (Thinly sliced); 1 cup English Cucumber (Peeled, cored, and julienned); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Chopped); 1 cup Edamame (Cooked and shelled); 1/2 cup Roasted Peanuts (Chopped); 2 Hass Avocados Avocados (Diced); 2 cups Grilled Garlic Chicken (Cubed after grilling); 1 cup Fried Wonton Strips (Store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Crisp Rice Sticks (Available in stores)

A vibrant crunch filled with colors and flavors—just what you need on a warm day! This California Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad recipe is my go-to when I crave something light yet satisfying. With its refreshing mix of crispy Napa and red cabbage, sweet julienned carrots, and that irresistible Thai peanut dressing, it’s a dish that can elevate any meal. Not only is this salad a breeze to whip up, but it also caters wonderfully to both vegetarian and meat lovers with the option of grilled chicken. Perfect for meal prep or as a stand-alone dish, this salad brings a delightful taste of Asia to your dinner table. Ready to dive into a salad adventure that will leave you asking for seconds? Let’s get started!

Why is this salad a crowd-pleaser?

Vibrant Colors: The fresh combination of Napa and red cabbage with julienned carrots creates an eye-catching presentation that excites the palate.

Dynamic Flavors: With its rich Thai peanut dressing, this salad delivers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and tangy notes, making it unforgettable.

Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer it vegetarian or loaded with grilled garlic chicken, this dish easily caters to your tastes.

Easy Prep: You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!

Make-Ahead Delight: This salad not only keeps well when prepped ahead, but it’s also incredibly versatile, just like other favorites such as Bbq Chicken Salad or Three Bean Salad.

Get ready for a flavorful feast that everyone will be raving about!

Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Ingredients

• Prepare to enjoy the delightful layers of flavor in this Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad recipe!

For the Dressings
• Lime-Cilantro Dressing – Adds zesty freshness; can be prepared in advance and stored until needed.
• Thai Peanut Dressing – Provides a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of spice; make it ahead of time for convenience.

For the Salad
• Napa Cabbage – Refreshing base; cut into 1/4-inch strips for great texture.
• Red Cabbage – Adds vibrant color and crunch; core and chop before using.
• Carrots – Sweetness and color; peeled and julienned to enhance appeal.
• Scallions (Green Onions) – Adds a mild onion flavor; thinly sliced for subtlety.
• English Cucumber – Refreshing crunch; peeled, cored, and julienned.
• Cilantro – Adds herbal notes; chopped to elevate flavor.
• Edamame – Protein-packed and textured; use cooked, shelled soybeans for ease.
• Roasted Peanuts – Provides a crunchy contrast; can be chopped for easy topping.
• Hass Avocados – Creamy and delicious; diced for a luscious finish.

Optional Additions
• Grilled Garlic Chicken – Enhances heartiness and flavor; a great protein option.
• Fried Wonton Strips – Adds extra crunch; store-bought or homemade for convenience.
• Crisp Rice Sticks – For a delightful crunch; available in stores or make them at home.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressings
Start by making the Lime-Cilantro Dressing and the Thai Peanut Dressing in separate bowls. For the Lime-Cilantro Dressing, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and a hint of honey until smooth. For the Thai Peanut Dressing, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of sriracha in a bowl, stirring until creamy. Set both dressings aside to allow the flavors to meld while you work on the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Crunchy Toppings
Next, prepare the Fried Wonton Strips and Crisp Rice Sticks. If using store-bought options, follow package instructions for heating. If making your own wonton strips, cut them into thin strips and fry in hot oil at 350°F for about 2-3 minutes or until golden. Allow them to drain on paper towels and cool to maintain crispiness. The Pumpkin crunchiness will contrast beautifully with the vibrant salad.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken (Optional)
If you’re adding the grilled garlic chicken, now is the time. Season chicken breasts with garlic, salt, and pepper, and grill them over medium heat (about 375°F) for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into 1/2-inch cubes, perfect for mixing into your Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad.

Step 4: Chop the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the fresh vegetables. Begin by slicing the Napa cabbage and red cabbage into 1/4-inch strips, then add the julienned carrots, sliced scallions, and julienned cucumber. Chop the cilantro roughly, and toss the edamame and roasted peanuts into the mix. The blend of colors and textures should be vibrant and appealing, setting the stage for your salad to shine.

Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Once the vegetables are prepped, add the cubed grilled chicken (if using) to the bowl with the veggies. Drizzle the Lime-Cilantro Dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. The flavors from the dressing will enhance the fresh ingredients, making the Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 6: Add the Crunch and Serve
Delicately mix in the prepared fried wonton strips to maintain their crispiness and avoid sogginess. Now, divide the salad among four plates to create individual servings, ensuring everyone gets an equal share of the lovely textures and colors. Top each serving generously with Crisp Rice Sticks to add an extra layer of crunch.

Step 7: Final Touches and Enjoy
Before serving, slice the Hass avocados and distribute them evenly over each salad plate. The creamy avocados complement the crunchy salad wonderfully. Drizzle each serving with the rich Thai Peanut Dressing for an added burst of flavor. Your Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad is now ready to be enjoyed—serve it fresh for the best taste!

Make Ahead Options

These California Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the Lime-Cilantro and Thai Peanut dressings up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, chop the Napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and cucumber up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring they stay crisp by placing them in a sealed bag or container with a damp paper towel. When ready to serve, combine the prepped veggies with cooked chicken and dress it just before plating to maintain the vibrant textures. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy a delicious salad with minimal hassle during your busy week!

Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Variations

Feel free to experiment and add your own personal touch to this delightful salad!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace grilled garlic chicken with grilled tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian option that’s equally satisfying.
Colorful Crunch: Toss in some diced bell peppers for an extra layer of crunch and a pop of vibrant color throughout your salad.
Nutty Twist: Swap roasted peanuts for cashews to introduce a different nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Sweet Mango: Add fresh mango chunks to bring a juicy sweetness that pairs remarkably well with the Thai peanut dressing.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, throw in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha into the dressing for an exciting kick.
Seasoned Quinoa: Mix in cooked quinoa for extra texture and heartiness, transforming your salad into a fulfilling meal.
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze some fresh orange juice over the top just before serving for a refreshing citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish.
Asian Slaw: Amp up the crunch by adding shredded carrots and purple cabbage, echoing tastes from other refreshing salads like Chinese Chicken Salad or Cowboy Pasta Salad for a fun twist!

How to Store and Freeze Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressings separate until you’re ready to enjoy to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the assembled salad as the vegetables will become mushy. If you need to freeze components, consider storing the dressings for up to 1 month.

Prep Ahead: Make dressings a day in advance and refrigerate in airtight jars. This allows for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve the Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad.

Reheating Chicken: If using grilled garlic chicken, you can reheat it in a microwave for about 30 seconds until warmed through, avoiding drying out the meat.

What to Serve with California Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad

The perfect accompaniments can make your salad experience even more delightful and memorable.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, flavorful, and easy to make; they enhance the protein factor while bringing a smoky flavor that harmonizes with the salad.
Coconut Rice: A touch of sweetness and creamy texture from coconut milk rounds out the meal, balancing the salad’s crunch with a soft side.
Spiced Edamame: Lightly seasoned, these tender soybeans echo the salad’s elements while adding a pop of protein, making them a fun snack.
Cucumber Avocado Rolls: Fresh and light, these sushi-like bites provide a refreshing taste that complements the Thai flavors while maintaining a healthful profile.
Asian Ginger Chicken Wings: Sticky-n-juicy wings marinated in a ginger-soy glaze offer a rich flavor contrast and pair beautifully with the vibrant salad.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finale, this classic dessert presents a heavenly sweetness that plays into the tropical theme, delighting your palate.

Enjoy mixing and matching to create a feast that tantalizes all your senses!

Expert Tips for Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Recipe

Marinate Longer: For enhanced flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow delicious flavors to penetrate the meat.
Sharp Knife for Avocados: To achieve even and beautiful avocado pieces, use a sharp knife and slice carefully to maintain their creamy texture.
Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken stays juicy by cooking it just until done; a meat thermometer can help check for doneness without drying it out.
Cool Fried Snacks: Allow fried wonton strips and rice sticks to cool completely before adding them to the salad to maintain their delightful crunch.
Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad refreshing, add dressings just before serving to prevent sogginess, especially in your Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad recipe.

Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, use a combination of Napa cabbage and red cabbage. Napa cabbage has a milder, sweeter taste, while red cabbage adds vibrant color and crunch. Both should be cut into 1/4-inch strips for optimal enjoyment in your Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad recipe.

How long can I store the salad in the fridge?
Very importantly, store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the freshness of the vegetables, it’s best to store the dressings separately and only mix them right before serving.

Can I freeze the salad or its components?
I often recommend against freezing the assembled salad as the veggies will become mushy. However, you can freeze the dressings for up to 1 month. Simply pour them into resealable freezer bags, flatten, and lay them flat in the freezer for easy storage. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight.

What if the wonton strips become soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure the fried wonton strips cool completely before adding them to the salad. Also, dress the salad just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the grilled garlic chicken and using tofu as a substitute. This way, you can still enjoy the satisfying flavors and textures in your Pizza Kitchen Thai Crunch Salad recipe while keeping it meat-free.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?
If you love meal prep, you can make the dressings a day in advance and keep them in airtight jars in the fridge. Chop all the salad ingredients and store them separately, then assemble just before serving. This ensures both maximum freshness and flavor!