Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing: A Refreshing Harmony of Flavors and Textures

Experience the vibrant flavors and textures of Japan with this delightful spinach salad, featuring a savory sesame dressing that will transport your taste buds to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Easy to make (15 minutes)
2. Nutritious and refreshing
3. Customizable with your favorite ingredients
4. Perfect side dish or light lunch
5. Authentic Japanese flavors

Optional Ingredients:

– Grilled chicken or salmon
– Sliced avocado
– Toasted almonds or cashews
– Diced cucumber
– Carrot slices

Ingredients:
  1. 1 bunch fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
  2. 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  3. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  4. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  5. 1 tablespoon sugar
  6. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  7. 1 clove garlic, minced
  8. 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  9. Salt, to taste
Directions:
  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the spinach in the boiling water for about 1 minute, then immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the spinach and squeeze out excess water.
  2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Place the blanched spinach in a serving bowl. Pour the sesame dressing over the spinach and toss gently to coat.
  5. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad just before serving.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Per serving:

– Calories: 150
– Fat: 8g
– Saturated Fat: 1g
– Cholesterol: 0mg
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 4g
– Protein: 5g

Tips and Variations:

– Use baby spinach for a milder flavor
– Substitute sesame oil with olive oil
– Add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness
– Use different types of vinegar (e.g., apple cider)
– Experiment with various sesame seed combinations (e.g., black, white)

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