Name: Salad with Asian Dressing: 7 Delicious Variations
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup tamari (or soy sauce preferably low sodium); 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (or sesame oil); 2 cups chopped cucumber (about 1 large); 2 cups chopped celery (about 6 ribs); 2 cups sweet green peas (frozen, thawed); 2 cups shelled edamame (frozen, thawed); 2 cups cooked quinoa (2/3 cups dry, cooked); 2 cups baby spinach (chopped); 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1/2 cup chopped scallion; 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds; Fresh lime juice (to taste)

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Salad with Asian Dressing is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients that bring a burst of flavor to your meals. This high-protein delight features colorful edamame and nutritious quinoa, making it not only visually appealing but also satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish during dinner, this salad is versatile enough to cater to various taste preferences. With a zesty Asian dressing that ties everything together, you’re in for a treat that takes only 15 minutes to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of this healthy salad packed with Asian flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Salad with Asian Dressing

There are numerous reasons to enjoy this salad. First, it’s a vegetarian salad with Asian dressing, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Second, it’s rich in protein thanks to ingredients like edamame and quinoa. Third, the salad is incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for busy days or meal prep. Fourth, the crunchiness of the vegetables, combined with the creamy sesame dressing, tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, this salad is not only healthy but also budget-friendly. Lastly, it is customizable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.

Ingredients for Salad with Asian Dressing

Gather these items:

1/4 cup tamari (or soy sauce preferably low sodium)
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (or sesame oil)
2 cups chopped cucumber (about 1 large)
2 cups chopped celery (about 6 ribs)
2 cups sweet green peas (frozen, thawed)
2 cups shelled edamame (frozen, thawed)
2 cups cooked quinoa (2/3 cups dry, cooked)
2 cups baby spinach (chopped)
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup chopped scallion
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
Fresh lime juice (to taste)

How to Make Salad with Asian Dressing Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil until well combined to create the dressing.
Step 2: For meal prep jars: Add 1/4 of the dressing to four mason jars and layer in the following order: cucumber, celery, green peas, edamame, quinoa, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds. Seal jars and refrigerate.
Step 3: For a large salad: Combine all chopped vegetables with quinoa, edamame, peas, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds in a large bowl. Pour dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad with Asian Dressing

Keep these in mind:

This salad is perfect for meal prep.
Enjoy it as a quick lunch or a side dish.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences.
Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and flavor.
Consider adding protein like chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.

Best Ways to Serve Salad with Asian Dressing

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
Serve as a side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired main course.
Include it in a buffet spread for a refreshing addition.

How to Store and Reheat Salad with Asian Dressing

For storing, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep. If you’ve prepared it in jars, just shake them before serving to mix the dressing again. This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, the components can be stored separately to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salad with Asian Dressing

What’s the secret to perfect Salad with Asian Dressing?

The key to a perfect Asian-style salad is balancing the flavors of the dressing. Ensure that the tamari or soy sauce is complemented by the sweetness of the maple syrup and the acidity of the rice vinegar.

Can I make Salad with Asian Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Salad with Asian Dressing?

Avoid over-dressing the salad too early, as this can lead to soggy vegetables. Instead, dress the salad just before serving for the best texture.

Variations of Salad with Asian Dressing You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Add cooked and chilled soba noodles to create an Asian noodle salad with dressing.
Incorporate grilled tofu or chicken for a more substantial dish.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to switch up the flavors.
Try different dressings like a salad with sesame dressing for a unique twist.

This healthy salad with Asian flavors is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Salad with Asian Dressing: 7 Delicious Variations - Salad with Asian Dressing - additional detail

For more information on meal prep, check out this guide. If you’re interested in learning more about healthy eating, visit this resource. For tips on using fresh ingredients, see this article.