P.F. Chang’s Large Thai Peanut Salad Price: $14.95
Calories: 700 Cal
With 700 calories and 48 grams of fat, the Large Thai Peanut Salad is a calorie-dense meal that leans more towards indulgence than a light, healthy choice. Is it delicious? Absolutely. Is it a smart choice?
The Large Thai Peanut Salad at P.F. Chang’s is a flavorful entrée-size salad that combines crunchy vegetables, fresh greens, and a creamy Thai peanut dressing. With 700 calories, it’s both filling and bold in taste, making it a great option for those who enjoy rich, nutty flavors.
Flavor and Ingredients
This salad features crisp lettuce, shredded carrots, cucumbers, cilantro, and crunchy wonton strips, all tossed in a creamy Thai peanut dressing. The dressing has a balance of savory peanut, soy, and sesame flavors, giving it an unmistakable Asian-inspired taste.
If you want something lighter, you can opt for the Small Thai Peanut Salad with just 350 calories. For a different profile, the Small House Salad at 110 calories is the lightest salad on the menu.
Nutrition Breakdown – Large Thai Peanut Salad
- The Fat: 48g of total fat (62% of your daily value) makes this a high-fat meal. For comparison, that’s similar to some burgers.
- The Sodium: At 1,250mg, it delivers over half the recommended daily sodium intake, a common theme with restaurant sauces and dressings.
- The Protein: The 20g of protein is a legitimate benefit, helping to make the salad filling, but it comes at a high caloric cost.
- The Sugar: 12g of sugar is moderate, but it contributes to the addictive, sweet-and-savory profile that makes the dressing so palatable.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 700 Cal |
| Total Fat | 48 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 1,250 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
(Nutritional values may vary depending on dressing and portion size.)
Taste & Experience: Who Will Actually Love This?
This salad is not for the faint of heart or those with peanut allergies. It’s for the diner who craves bold, unapologetic flavor.
The “Salad” Misnomer: If you’re expecting a light, vinaigrette-based salad, you will be shocked. This is a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs dish. The portion is large and, combined with the rich dressing, is undeniably filling.
The Flavor Profile: The dominant note is a sweet, savory, and creamy peanut flavor, reminiscent of a satay sauce. The cilantro adds a fresh, sharp contrast, and the wonton strips provide a satisfying crunch.
Price Value
At $14.95, the Large Thai Peanut Salad is one of the higher-priced salad entrées at P.F. Chang’s, but its generous portion and rich peanut dressing make it worth the price. It’s more filling than the Small Asian Caesar Salad ($7.95) and provides a bold alternative to the Large Asian Caesar Salad ($13.95).
Allergen Information
This is one of the most allergen-heavy items on the menu.
- Contains: Peanuts, Soy, and Gluten (from the wonton strips and likely the sauce).
- Not an option for: Anyone with a peanut allergy, gluten intolerance, or soy sensitivity.
If you have nut or gluten sensitivities, you can request modifications or try safer alternatives like the Edamame or the Wonton Soup Bowl.
Comparison with Other P.F. Chang’s Salads
- Large Thai Peanut Salad: $14.95 | 700 Cal | Bold peanut flavor.
- Small Thai Peanut Salad: $8.95 | 350 Cal | Lighter version.
- Large Asian Caesar Salad: $13.95 | 660 Cal | Classic Caesar with Asian twist.
- Small House Salad: $6.95 | 110 Cal | Lightest choice.
FAQs – Large Thai Peanut Salad at P.F. Chang’s
Is the $14.95 price tag for the Large Thai Peanut Salad justified?
At $14.95, it’s one of the more expensive salads on the menu. You’re paying for a large portion and the rich, signature peanut dressing. While filling, it’s a premium price for what is essentially a vegetable dish with a high-calorie sauce.
With 700 calories, is this salad actually a healthy choice?
At 700 calories, this salad has more calories than many of P.F. Chang’s entrées. The high calorie count comes primarily from the 48 grams of fat in the peanut dressing. It’s a satisfying meal, but it should be considered an indulgent treat rather than a light, health-conscious option.
Is it truly filling enough to be a full meal?
Absolutely. Between the large volume of vegetables, the hearty peanut dressing, and 20 grams of protein, this salad is substantial and will leave most diners feeling fully satisfied. It’s arguably one of the most filling salad options available.
I have a peanut allergy. Is this salad safe to eat?
No. This salad is a significant allergy risk. Peanuts are integrated into the dressing and used as a garnish, making cross-contamination very likely. Those with a peanut allergy should avoid this dish entirely.
Can vegetarians eat the Thai Peanut Salad?
Yes, the salad is vegetarian as standard. However, vegans should exercise caution and confirm the ingredients in the dressing, as creamy dressings can sometimes contain dairy or honey.
Final Thoughts
The P.F. Chang’s Large Thai Peanut Salad ($14.95 | 700 Cal) is a hearty, nutty, and flavor-packed salad option for guests who want something different from the usual Caesar or House Salad. With its crunchy vegetables and bold Thai peanut dressing, it’s perfect as a stand-alone entrée or as a complement to dishes like the Chang’s Spicy Chicken or Mongolian Beef.
