Some of the best summer lunches are the ones that require little more than a chopping board and a generous bowl. This crunchy Thai-inspired salad is full of colour, with shredded cabbage, crisp lettuce and fresh herbs providing a refreshing contrast to a rich, tangy peanut dressing. It works beautifully alongside braaied meat or fish, but it is substantial enough to become lunch with the addition of shredded cooked chicken or tofu.

Ingredients

For the salad: 3–4 cups finely shredded red cabbage; 2–3 cups finely shredded gem lettuce; 1 yellow or red pepper, finely sliced; 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded; a handful of finely sliced fresh mint; a handful of chopped fresh coriander; and ½ cup roasted salted peanuts.

For the dressing: ⅓ cup (80 ml) smooth plain peanut butter; 30–45 ml fresh lime or lemon juice; 30 ml honey; 15 ml soy sauce; 30 ml water at room temperature; 2–3 tsp finely grated fresh ginger; 1 small grated garlic clove; salt and pepper to taste.

Method

Place the cabbage, lettuce, pepper, carrot, mint, coriander and peanuts in a large serving bowl. Toss lightly to distribute the ingredients without bruising the leaves.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, citrus juice, honey, soy sauce, water, ginger and garlic until smooth. A stick blender can help produce a silky consistency. Add a splash more water if the dressing is too thick to pour, and season to taste.

Just before serving, pour half the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve the remaining dressing on the side so everyone can add more if they wish.

Make it your own

For a heartier meal, top with shredded cooked chicken, grilled pork strips or cubed tofu. Keep the components separate until serving if preparing in advance, as the dressed lettuce will soften. If cooking for someone with a peanut allergy, this recipe is not suitable without a carefully checked alternative dressing. The peanuts and soy sauce may also contribute considerable salt, so taste before adding extra seasoning.

Recipe note

Recipe adapted for presentation from the supplied crunchy Thai salad source. The source includes a wine-pairing promotion, which has been omitted from the editorial recipe.