Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

This high-protein Salad with Asian Dressing is a delightful combination of crunchy veggies and hearty grains, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to meal prep for the week or serve a light lunch, this salad packs flavor and nutrition. With its refreshing Asian dressing, it’s sure to be a hit at family gatherings or a quick weekday meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• High in Protein: Packed with edamame and quinoa, this salad provides a substantial protein boost.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Perfect for making ahead, you can store individual servings in mason jars for easy grab-and-go meals.
• Flavorful Dressing: The combination of tamari, rice vinegar, and sesame oil gives the salad a deliciously tangy kick.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Filled with fresh vegetables and wholesome grains, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein), you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Mason jars or large bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your dressing ingredients blend smoothly for the best flavor.
• Mason jars: These are perfect for portioning out salads for meal prep, keeping them fresh until you’re ready to eat.
• Knife and cutting board: A sharp knife paired with a cutting board allows for safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.

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Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup tamari (or soy sauce preferably low sodium)
• 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (or sesame oil)

For the Salad

• 2 cups chopped cucumber (about 1 large)
• 2 cups chopped celery (about 6 ribs)
• 2 cups sweet green peas (frozen, thawed)
• 2 cups shelled edamame (frozen, thawed)
• 2 cups cooked quinoa (2/3 cups dry, cooked)
• 2 cups baby spinach (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped scallion
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh lime juice (to taste)

How to Make Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

Step 1: Make the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

Option 1: Meal Prep Salad Jars

1. For four 16-ounce mason jars:
2. Add one-fourth of the dressing to each jar.
3. Layer in the following ingredients in each jar:
   • ½ cup cucumber
   • ½ cup celery
   • ½ cup green peas
   • ½ cup edamame
   • ½ cup quinoa
   • ½ cup spinach
   • 2 tablespoons cilantro
   • 2 tablespoons scallion
   • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
4. Seal the jars and refrigerate for up to four days. Shake before serving and add fresh lime juice to taste.

Option 2: Serve Immediately

1. In a large bowl, add all salad ingredients:
2. Cucumbers, celery, green peas, edamame, quinoa, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Enjoy your Salad with Asian Dressing as a nutritious meal that keeps you energized throughout your day!

How to Serve Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

Serving this Salad with Asian Dressing is simple and versatile, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty side, these suggestions will elevate your salad experience.

Mason Jar Salad

• Prepare individual servings in mason jars for easy meal prep. Layer the ingredients and dressing separately, shaking before eating.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad atop a bed of mixed greens to add extra volume and nutrition. This adds a lovely presentation and more crunch.

As a Wrap Filling

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps or lettuce leaves. This creates a fun, handheld meal that’s perfect for lunch on the go.

Paired with Grilled Chicken

• For a protein boost, serve the salad alongside grilled chicken. The flavors of the chicken complement the Asian dressing beautifully.

With Rice or Quinoa Bowls

• Incorporate the salad into rice or quinoa bowls. It adds freshness and texture to your wholesome grain bowl.

How to Perfect Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

To ensure your Salad with Asian Dressing is always at its best, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and crunch, making your salad vibrant and appealing.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your taste preferences; more maple syrup for sweetness or lime juice for acidity can make a difference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes enhances flavor melding, making each bite delightful.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add toppings like crushed nuts or seeds for added texture and healthy fats.
• Prep Ahead: Make portions ahead of time in jars or containers. This ensures you have quick meals ready throughout the week.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 days.

Best Side Dishes for Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

Pairing side dishes with your Salad with Asian Dressing can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A colorful assortment of grilled veggies brings out smoky flavors that complement your salad beautifully.
2. Brown Rice: Nutty brown rice provides a hearty base that pairs well with the fresh elements of your salad.
3. Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas add crunch and additional protein, perfect as a snack or side.
4. Noodle Stir-Fry: Quick stir-fried noodles with vegetables offer a warm contrast to your cold salad.
5. Eggplant Dip: This creamy dip adds depth; serve it with pita chips for an interesting flavor combination.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a light and refreshing side option that complements the flavors perfectly.
7. Cucumber Kimchi: This spicy fermented dish adds zing and probiotics that enhance digestion while pairing well with Asian flavors.
8. Quinoa Pilaf: A seasoned quinoa pilaf fills you up while maintaining harmony with your high-protein salad option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein), there are some common mistakes to be aware of to ensure the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted or stale vegetables can lead to a less appealing salad. Always choose fresh, crisp produce to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Not measuring dressing properly: Overdressing your salad can make it soggy. Measure out your dressing ingredients carefully for consistent taste and texture.
• Skipping meal prep jars: If you’re making this salad for meal prep, skipping the jar method can result in a less convenient experience. Use jars for easy storage and grab-and-go options.
• Forgetting about seasoning: While the dressing adds flavor, don’t neglect to season your vegetables lightly before mixing them in. A pinch of salt or pepper can elevate the overall taste.
• Using non-plant-based gelling agents: When adding any thickening agents, ensure they are plant-based like agar-agar instead of animal-derived gelatin to keep the recipe aligned with dietary preferences.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for maximum freshness.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to separate the dressing if you prefer a crunchier salad when serving later.

Freezing Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• Freezing is not recommended as fresh vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze edamame and peas separately before combining.

Reheating Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the salad, and stir occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making a Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein).

Can I customize my Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I substitute if I don’t have tamari?

You can use low-sodium soy sauce as an alternative if tamari isn’t available.

How do I make this salad more filling?

Add additional protein sources such as chickpeas or grilled turkey breast to increase its heartiness.

Is this Salad with Asian Dressing suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep; just store it in jars as mentioned above for easy access throughout the week.

Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep or a quick lunch. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins, making every serving unique. Give it a try!