Sesame Ginger Crunch Salad
This Sesame Ginger Crunch Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and crunchy dish packed with colorful vegetables, toasted sesame seeds, and a tangy, slightly sweet sesame-ginger dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect as a side dish or a healthy main when topped with protein. The combination of crisp veggies and the bold sesame-ginger flavor makes it an irresistible salad for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup chopped romaine or napa cabbage
½ cup thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
½ cup thinly sliced cucumbers
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
¼ cup slivered almonds or chopped peanuts (for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions
1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, olive oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
2. Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, romaine, bell peppers, cucumbers, green onions, and cilantro.
Toss in toasted sesame seeds and nuts for extra crunch.
3. Dress & Serve
Pour the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Total Time: 20 Minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for toasting sesame seeds and making dressing)
Nutritional Information
(per serving, approx. 1 cup)
Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 320mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Notes & Tips
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame for a heartier meal.
Nut-Free Option: Replace almonds/peanuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Make It Spicy: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Storage: Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Dress just before serving for the best texture.