Asian Chopped Salad With Sesame Vinaigrette Recipe

Asian Chopped Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish that combines crisp vegetables, tender protein, and a zesty dressing. You’ll toss together Napa and red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and chicken or tofu. The tangy sesame vinaigrette, made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, ties everything together. Top it off with crispy wonton strips, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds for added texture. This versatile salad is perfect for light lunches or as an impressive side dish at dinner parties. It’s not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a good balance of macronutrients. Explore further to reveal the full potential of this Asian-inspired culinary delight.

Ingredients and Preparation

Asian Chopped Salad

Ingredients

• 4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, seeded and diced
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or diced tofu
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1 cup crispy wonton strips
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the Napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Add the cooked chicken or tofu and edamame to the vegetable mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Add the crispy wonton strips and toss lightly to distribute.
6. Garnish the salad with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
7. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving for a cooler salad.

Top Tips

1. Prepare the vegetables in advance and store them separately for quick assembly later.
2. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for enhanced flavor before adding them to the salad.
3. For the best texture, add the crispy wonton strips just before serving to maintain their crunch.
4. Massage the cabbage with a pinch of salt before adding other ingredients to soften it slightly.
5. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin vegetable slices to ensure even distribution of flavors.
6. Adjust the dressing consistency by adding a tablespoon of water if it’s too thick.

Variations

1. Tropical Twist: Add diced mango and substitute lime juice for rice vinegar in the dressing.
2. Nutty Crunch: Include chopped peanuts or cashews for added texture and protein.
3. Seafood Delight: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a pescatarian version.
4. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and a dash of sriracha to the dressing for heat lovers.
5. Fruity Fresh: Incorporate mandarin orange segments and a handful of fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Vegetarian Protein Boost: Use marinated and grilled tempeh instead of chicken or tofu.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	4
Calories	320
Total Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	28g
Protein	16g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	450mg

This Asian Chopped Salad is a nutritious option, providing a good balance of macronutrients. It’s rich in fiber from the variety of vegetables, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. The protein content from chicken or tofu helps in muscle maintenance and repair. The sesame oil in the dressing offers heart-healthy unsaturated fats, while the vegetables provide a range of vitamins and minerals. Be mindful of sodium content, which can be adjusted by using low-sodium soy sauce in the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can I Store the Prepared Salad in the Refrigerator?

You’ll want to consume your prepared salad within 2-3 days for best freshness. Store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator at 40°F or below. Remember, the longer it’s stored, the more the quality may decline.

Can I Substitute the Sesame Oil With Another Type of Oil?

You can substitute sesame oil with other oils, but it’ll alter the flavor profile. Consider your taste preferences when choosing alternatives. Remember, oil substitutions may affect your salad’s shelf life, so adjust storage time accordingly.

Is This Salad Suitable for a Gluten-Free Diet?

You’ll be pleased to know this salad can be gluten-free. Check ingredient labels carefully, especially for soy sauce. Consider gluten-free tamari as an alternative. You’ll enjoy the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables and protein-rich ingredients in this versatile dish.

What Proteins Can I Add to Make This a Complete Meal?

You’ve got plenty of protein options to make your meal complete. Try grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for flavor variations. For meal prep, cook proteins in advance. You can also substitute edamame or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

How Spicy Is This Salad, and Can I Adjust the Heat Level?

You’ll find this salad isn’t inherently spicy. But you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking. Try adding sriracha or chili flakes for a kick, or explore milder flavor variations with ginger or wasabi.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered a vibrant Asian chopped salad with sesame vinaigrette. By combining crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a tangy dressing, you’ve created a balanced dish bursting with flavor and texture. Remember to slice ingredients uniformly for even distribution and peak mouthfeel. Don’t overdress the salad; a light coating ensures each element shines. For best outcomes, serve immediately to maintain the vegetables’ crispness and prevent sogginess. This versatile recipe allows for easy customization to suit your preferences.