If you’re in the mood for a dish that combines vibrant colors, delightful textures, and a symphony of flavors, look no further than the Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing. This refreshing salad is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. Packed full of fresh vegetables and tossed with a tangy homemade dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or even a hearty snack. What makes this salad stand out is its perfect balance of crunchy greens and the zesty punch from the sesame ginger dressing. The inclusion of ingredients such as shelled edamame and sliced almonds not only boosts its nutritional profile but also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and crunch.
The simplicity of this salad means it can be whipped together quickly, making it ideal for those busy nights when you need a healthy meal without the fuss. The Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad offers the best of all worlds: it’s delicious, healthy, and easy to prepare. Plus, the homemade dressing, made with sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and fresh ginger, adds a delightful Asian-inspired twist that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving it as part of a larger meal or enjoying it on its own, this salad is destined to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad
- Quick and Easy: Whip up this salad in just a few steps, ideal for those busy weeknight dinners.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein from fresh veggies and edamame.
- Flavorful: The sesame ginger dressing brings a delightful zest that ties all the ingredients together.
- Versatile: Serve as a light meal or pair with your favorite protein for a more substantial dish.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the preparation of your Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad, it’s essential to set up your workspace for an efficient cooking experience. Begin by clearing a section of your countertop and gathering all necessary ingredients. A large mixing bowl will be your primary tool for combining the salad ingredients, while a smaller bowl is perfect for preparing the sesame ginger dressing. A sharp chef’s knife will come in handy for slicing the cabbages and green onions, and a set of measuring spoons will ensure accuracy when it comes to blending the dressing components.
A cutting board is indispensable for keeping your workspace tidy and organized, and having a whisk will make emulsifying the dressing a breeze. You may also want to have a salad spinner on hand for washing and drying your greens quickly, ensuring that the dressing adheres perfectly. By preparing your tools and ingredients beforehand, you ensure a seamless salad-making process — paving the way for a delightful culinary result.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup cooked shelled edamame
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, carefully toss together the shredded green and red cabbages, cooked shelled edamame, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and toasted almonds. This colorful mix not only looks vibrant but also ensures each forkful is bursting with nutrients and flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. This dressing is what gives the salad its signature zing, so make sure all ingredients are well combined for that perfect balance of taste.
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Gently pour the sesame ginger dressing over the salad mix, and toss everything together until well coated. Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes to enable the flavors to meld and the vegetables to absorb the dressing’s deliciousness. Serve chilled to enjoy it at its best.
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad a heartier main course.
- Vegetables: Mix in bell peppers or cucumbers for additional crunch and color.
- Spices: For a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
Cooking Notes
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor — especially the ginger and cilantro.
- Toasted almonds add extra depth to the salad; if unavailable, try using cashews or sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meats for a complete meal experience.
- Enjoy as a standalone lunch with a slice of crusty bread for added texture.
Tips
- Massaging the cabbage gently before mixing can soften it slightly, making it more enjoyable to eat.
- Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for a few hours if possible, as it tastes even better once the flavors meld.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 10g per serving
- Sodium: 400mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute almonds with cashews, walnuts, or sesame seeds, all of which add their own unique flavors and textures.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply replace the honey in the dressing with agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it entirely plant-based.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes! Fruits like mango or orange slices can complement the salad beautifully by adding sweetness and juiciness.
Conclusion
The Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, flavorful journey that’s quick to prepare and delightful to eat. With its balance of healthy vegetables, crunchy elements, and a dynamic dressing, it’s the kind of recipe that appeals to the taste buds and nourishes the body. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the suggested variations to make it your own. Whether you’re having it as a standalone meal or a side dish, it promises to elevate any dining experience. We hope you try this recipe and fall in love with it just as we have. Feel free to share your own twists in the comments or even suggest new ways to serve this bright, flavorful dish.
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Crunchy Cabbage and Edamame Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This refreshing salad is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup cooked shelled edamame
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, carefully toss together the shredded green and red cabbages, cooked shelled edamame, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and toasted almonds.
- In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Gently pour the sesame ginger dressing over the salad mix, and toss everything together until well coated. Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes.
Notes
For best results, use fresh ginger and cilantro. This salad tastes even better when the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Protein: 10 g