close up shot of Thai bean salad with peanut sauce

Bean salad

thai bean salad with peanut sauce

By:

WordofMany

Published:

19 Oct 2025

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Picture this: you're at a summer barbecue, the sun is shining, laughter fills the air, and everyone's gathered around the picnic table. Among the burgers and potato salad, there's THIS salad – a colorful explosion of green beans, edamame, bell peppers, and carrots, all tossed in a luscious peanut sauce. One bite, and you're transported to a street food stall in Bangkok, the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors dancing on your tongue. I can almost feel the sun from a recent trip to the coasts. This isn't just any salad; it's an experience!
Ingredients for Thai bean salad arranged on a wooden table
I first tasted something similiar while visiting a small thai restaurant in upstate NY while on a trip. The owner, clearly sensing my hesitation after ordering something so out of my norm, assured me I would love it. Boy, was she right. If you're looking for something that's both healthy and exciting, that satisfies your cravings without weighing you down, then look no further. This Thai Bean Salad is your answer. I've tweaked and perfected this recipe over the years, and I'm so thrilled to share it with you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, get ready to impress your friends and family (or just yourself!) with this incredibly easy and flavorful salad. Promise me you will try it!
Overhead shot of a prepared Thai bean salad in a bowl

Required Equipments

  • Large Pot
  • Ice Bath
  • Chopping Board
  • Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Thai Bean Salad with Peanut Sauce: Frequently Asked Questions

Thai Bean Salad with Peanut Sauce

This Thai Bean Salad with Peanut Sauce is a burst of vibrant flavors and textures, combining crunchy beans, refreshing vegetables, and a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. It's a healthy, satisfying, and utterly delicious dish perfect as a side, a light lunch, or a potluck contribution!

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This ensures they retain their vibrant color and a delightful crunch. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Edamame: If using frozen edamame, cook according to package instructions. Usually, this involves steaming or boiling for about 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and let them cool slightly.
  3. Chop the Vegetables: While the beans and edamame are cooling, chop the red bell pepper and carrots into small, bite-sized pieces. Mince the fresh cilantro. The smaller the pieces, the easier they are to incorporate into the salad.
  4. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable, but still have some body to cling to the vegetables. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Prefer it sweeter? A touch more honey will do the trick.
  5. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, cooked edamame, chopped red bell pepper, carrots, and cilantro. Pour the peanut sauce over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the vegetables soggy.
  6. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become even more refreshing. However, it's also delicious served immediately!
  7. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. Serve as a side dish, a light lunch, or bring it to your next potluck gathering. Trust me, it'll be a hit!
  8. Consider adding other veggies you like! Some options that work nicely are shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, or even sliced cucumbers.

📝 Notes

  • For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
  • Add shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 15 g

Fat: 20 g

Carbohydrates: 25 g

Fiber: 8 g

Calcium: 50 mg

A vibrant salad is a conversation between colors, textures, and tastes – a celebration of fresh ingredients in every bite.

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