This vibrant salad packs 30g of protein per serving and is a flavor and texture lover's dream/ Crisp vegetables, protein-packed quinoa and edamame and fresh herbs come together with a creamy cashew-ginger dressing that's perfectly balanced with tangy lime, soy and a hint of heat. Spicy-sweet chili crunch cashews that add an irresistible crunch to every bite. It's fresh, filling and makes the perfect healthy lunch or light dinner.

Serves 4

Ingredients

Chili Crunch Cashews

• 1.5 cups raw cashews
• 1 tablespoon chili crunch
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ½ teaspoon coarse salt

Dressing

• ⅓ cup creamy all-natural cashew butter
• 2.5 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1.5 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic chili sauce
• 1.5 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Salad

• 2 cups cooked white quinoa
• 2 cups shelled edamame
• 2 cups matchstick carrots 2 cups sliced cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
• 2 cups sliced sugar snap peas
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup chopped fresh mint
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup of corn
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

• Begin by preparing the cashews. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cashews and toast for 2 minutes, stirring periodically. Add the chili crunch and honey to the cashews and toss. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the cashews begin to brown.
• Transfer the cashews to a plate and season with salt. Put them in the refrigerator or freezer to cool.
• Next, place all the dressing ingredients into a bowl and whisk. The dressing will feel thick at first, but continue to whisk and it will thin out. If the dressing is still thick (this is determined by how oily the cashew butter is), add 1 teaspoon of water until it reaches the desired consistency. Set aside.
• Add the quinoa, edamame, carrots, cucumbers, peas, red onion, cilantro, mint, and green onion to a bowl and toss. Season with salt and toss again.
• Dress the salad and toss until coated. Add the cashews and toss again. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate.

Recipe by Fit Foodie Finds