Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

This Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) is a vibrant and nutritious option perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead, this salad checks all the boxes. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, it combines fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing that will keep you feeling satisfied without breaking the bank.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad is ready to enjoy in no time.
• High Protein Content: Featuring edamame and quinoa, this dish is an excellent source of plant-based protein.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the salad with your favorite veggies or grains to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead, store it in jars for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The Asian dressing adds a delightful zing that elevates the fresh ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Salad with Asian Dressing, you need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a seamless cooking experience and enhances your efficiency in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Mason jars or large bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Whisk: A whisk helps blend your dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to organize ingredients easily while prepping.
• Mason jars or large bowl: Use mason jars for convenient storage or a large bowl to mix everything together if serving immediately.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 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: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 2: Meal Prep Salad Jars (Option 1)

1. To create four (16-ounce) mason jars:
2. Add one-fourth of the dressing to each jar.
3. Layer 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
   • Top with 2 teaspoons sesame seeds.
4. Seal jars and refrigerate for up to four days. Shake before serving and add fresh lime juice to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients (Option 2)

1. In a large bowl:
2. Transfer cucumber, celery, green peas, edamame, quinoa, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds into the bowl.
3. Pour in the prepared dressing and gently mix until all ingredients are coated evenly.

Enjoy your delicious Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)!

How to Serve Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

Serving your Salad with Asian Dressing is easy and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion or meal. Here are several serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

Meal-Prep Jars

• Prepare individual servings in mason jars for a quick grab-and-go lunch.
• Layer the ingredients to keep them fresh and crunchy until you’re ready to eat.

Family Style

• Serve the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table.
• Encourage family members to help themselves, promoting a communal dining atmosphere.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy this salad as a satisfying main dish by increasing portions.
• Pair it with extra protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu for added nutrition.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens for extra texture and flavor.
• Use baby arugula or kale for a peppery kick that complements the dressing.

With Fresh Lime Wedges

• Add lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings.
• This enhances the flavors and adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

To make your Salad with Asian Dressing even better, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will enhance flavor and presentation, ensuring every bite is delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible. This enhances flavor and texture significantly.

• Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for an extra protein boost. This makes the salad more filling and nutritious.

• Control Dressing Quantity: Start with half of the dressing when mixing, then add more as needed. This prevents sogginess while allowing you to adjust flavors.

• Add Crunchy Toppings: Incorporate nuts or seeds like sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and healthy fats. They also enhance visual appeal.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully and provides a refreshing taste.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Salad with Asian Dressing can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients that complement the salad’s flavors.
2. Brown Rice: A simple side of brown rice rounds out your meal while providing additional fiber and whole grains.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness and a hearty texture that pairs well with the crispness of the salad.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly grilled bring out their natural sweetness and enhance your overall dining experience.
5. Quinoa Patties: Serve alongside quinoa patties made from leftover quinoa for an added protein punch in a delicious form.
6. Cucumber Rolls: Fresh cucumber rolls filled with hummus or avocado provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein), it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the dressing preparation: Many people forget that the dressing is essential for flavor. Whisk it well before mixing with the salad ingredients to ensure even coating.
• Using unthawed frozen peas and edamame: If you add them frozen, they will water down your salad. Always thaw them before using for better texture and taste.
• Not measuring ingredients: Overloading on any ingredient can alter the balance of flavors. Use precise measurements to maintain the dish’s integrity.
• Forgetting about fresh lime juice: This brightens up the dish significantly. Don’t skip this step; add it just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Neglecting storage tips: Improper storage can make your salad soggy. Store in airtight containers and keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad lasts up to 4 days when refrigerated.
• Keep the dressing in a separate container until ready to serve.

Freezing Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in vegetables.
• If necessary, only freeze cooked quinoa and edamame separately.

Reheating Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread quinoa on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, warm quinoa and edamame until hot, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) that might help you while preparing this dish.

How can I make Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) more filling?

You can add additional protein sources like grilled chicken or chickpeas to increase its heartiness without changing its essence.

Can I customize the vegetables in my salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or what’s in season.

How long does Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) last in the fridge?

The salad remains fresh for up to four days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Pack individual portions into jars for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it based on your preferred veggies or protein sources. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy meal packed with flavor!