Go Back

Crispy Rice Salad

Crispy Rice Salad balances crunchy, herb-fresh textures with a tangy ginger lime dressing for a light meal or side.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dressing
  • 1 piece 1/2-inch knob of fresh ginger, or a spoonful of ginger paste
  • 1 clove 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup fish sauce Can be replaced with soy sauce for a vegan option
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons avocado oil or another neutral oil
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup lime juice (3-4 small limes)
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon 1/2 tablespoon chili crisp Adjust to taste
For the crispy rice
  • 2 cups 2 cups cooked jasmine rice Use chilled, just-cooled rice for best results
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons red curry paste
  • 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional) Use if rice isn't sticking together
For the salad
  • 1/2 piece 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 piece 1 shallot, thinly sliced or minced (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 bunch 1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 bunch 1 bunch mint, roughly chopped or torn (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup chopped peanuts Toast for extra flavor if desired
  • to taste chili crisp to taste

Method
 

Prepare the Dressing
  1. Blitz all the dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Prepare the Crispy Rice
  1. Toss the cooked rice in a bowl with avocado oil and red curry paste.
  2. If the rice does not hold together when squeezed, add cornstarch and wet your hands to mix again.
  3. Form loose, squishy chunks and transfer to the air fryer in a single layer.
  4. Air fry at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, until golden and crisped.
  5. Once done, break the crispy rice into small golden chunks.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine crispy rice with half of the dressing and your choice of veggies.
  2. Garnish with peanuts and additional chili crisp if desired.

Notes

Serve the salad at room temperature for the best contrast between warm rice and cool cucumbers. Store ingredients separately to maintain freshness. Assemble just before serving.