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Crispy Rice Salad with Spicy Coconut Tahini Dressing

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A crunchy and refreshing summer rice salad made with jasmine rice, crispy fried shallots, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, spicy coconut tahini dressing. Easy to customize and vegan-friendly!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

Tahini Dressing

  • ⅓ cup tahini
  • 3 tbsp coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp honey or agave for vegan
  • Zest + juice of 1 orange
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
  • 2 tsp chili paste or chili flakes
  • 1 garlic clove grated
  • 1 –2 tsp grated ginger
  • Salt to taste

Rice Salad

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice room temperature
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • ½ red bell pepper finely diced
  • ¼ –½ cucumber thinly sliced
  • ¾ cup shelled edamame fresh or thawed frozen
  • ⅓ cup queso fresco crumbled (use vegan cheese or tofu to make it vegan)
  • Fresh mint thinly sliced

Crispy Shallots

  • 2 medium shallots sliced into thin rings
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika optional
  • Neutral oil for frying e.g., canola or vegetable oil
  • Salt to season

To Serve

  • Extra dressing
  • Chili oil optional
  • Extra mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

  • Blend all dressing ingredients in a food processor or with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Fry the Shallots

  • Toss shallot rings in a bowl with flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
  • Heat oil over medium. Test with one ring—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
  • Fry in batches until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per batch.
  • Drain on paper towels and season with salt while hot.

Step 3: Build the Salad

  • Mix jasmine rice with soy sauce and sesame oil.
  • Add cucumber, bell pepper, edamame, and mint.
  • Toss with some dressing—just enough to coat. Save the rest for serving.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  • Plate the rice salad and drizzle more dressing over top. Add crispy shallots, crumbled queso fresco, fresh mint, and chili oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

  • Vegan Option: Swap honey for agave and use vegan cheese or tofu.
  • Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.
  • Boost Veggies: Try shredded cabbage, snap peas, or carrots.
  • Herb Swap: Use basil or cilantro instead of mint.