Salad with Asian Dressing

This Salad with Asian Dressing is a fresh, crisp, and flavor-packed dish featuring crunchy vegetables, protein options, and a homemade tangy-sweet Asian dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, this salad is easy to customize and pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors
• Easy to make in under 15 minutes
• Healthy and packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein
• Homemade Asian dressing that’s sweet, savory, and slightly tangy
• Great for meal prep and customizable with different ingredients

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, cabbage, or spinach)
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• ½ cup edamame (optional)
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or cashews
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional for protein)

For the Asian Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional for creaminess)

Directions

this recipe

1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add peanut butter if using for a creamier dressing.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, edamame, almonds, cilantro, and green onions.
3. Toss Everything Together: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
4. Serve & Garnish: Top with sesame seeds and add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Extra Crunch: Add crispy wonton strips or toasted peanuts.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the honey/maple syrup and use a keto-friendly sweetener.
• More Protein: Add grilled salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas.
• Fruit Twist: Add mandarin oranges or diced mango for sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Meal Prep Tip: Prep all ingredients ahead and toss with dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Just store the dressing separately and toss before eating.

What’s the best protein for this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or steak all work well.

Can I use store-bought Asian dressing?

Yes! But homemade tastes fresher and is free from preservatives.

How can I make the dressing thicker?

Add a teaspoon of peanut butter or tahini for a creamy texture.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Use a sugar-free sweetener in the dressing and skip the carrots for a lower-carb option.

Can I add noodles to this salad?

Yes! Rice noodles or ramen noodles make it heartier.

What’s a good side dish for this salad?

Pair it with miso soup, dumplings, or steamed edamame.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Only add dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar or lime juice work as substitutes for rice vinegar.

What’s the best nut for this salad?

Cashews, almonds, or peanuts all add great crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

This Salad with Asian Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. With crisp vegetables, a tangy dressing, and optional protein, it’s a versatile and delicious salad that you can customize to your liking. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality salad at home!

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