Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

This high-protein Salad with Asian Dressing is the perfect blend of crunchy textures and vibrant flavors, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you need a quick lunch, a nutritious dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this salad checks all the boxes. With its fresh ingredients and protein-packed components, you’ll enjoy every bite while staying healthy and satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious: Packed with protein from quinoa and edamame, this salad supports your health goals.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when time is short.
• Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish or make it a main course by increasing the serving size.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Flavorful Dressing: The Asian dressing adds an irresistible zing that enhances each ingredient.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jars
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jars: Ideal for meal prep; they keep your salad fresh and easy to transport.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures your dressing blends well for a uniform flavor.

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 Meal-Prep Salad Jars

1. For 4 (16-ounce) mason jars, pour one-fourth of the dressing into each jar.
2. Layer each jar with:
3. ½ cup cucumber
4. ½ cup celery
5. ½ cup green peas
6. ½ cup edamame
7. ½ cup quinoa
8. ½ cup spinach
9. 2 tablespoons cilantro
10. 2 tablespoons scallion
11. 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
12. Seal the jars and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Shake before serving and add fresh lime juice to taste.

Step 3: Mix in a Large Bowl (Option 2)

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, celery, green peas, edamame, quinoa, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds.
2. Pour in the prepared dressing and mix well to combine all ingredients.

Enjoy your healthy and satisfying Salad with Asian Dressing!

How to Serve Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

This crunchy and refreshing Salad with Asian Dressing is perfect for meal prep or as a vibrant side dish. Here are some serving ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Serve in Mason Jars

• Prepare individual servings in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches. Layer the ingredients starting with the dressing at the bottom and finishing with the greens on top.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Add grilled chicken slices on top of the salad for an extra protein boost. The savory flavors complement the Asian dressing beautifully.

Top with Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews over your salad for added crunch and healthy fats. They also provide a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Serve Chilled

• Enjoy this salad chilled for a refreshing meal, especially during warm weather. It can be a light and satisfying option for picnics or barbecues.

How to Perfect Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

To create the best version of this salad, follow these essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for optimal crunch and flavor. This will make your salad more enjoyable and nutritious.

• Properly Cooked Quinoa: Ensure your quinoa is cooked properly—light and fluffy. Rinse it before cooking to remove any bitterness.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out any vegetables you don’t have on hand. Bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli can be great substitutes.

• Adjust Dressing to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier dressing, adjust the maple syrup or rice vinegar accordingly until it suits your palate.

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

This high-protein salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Marinate zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms in olive oil and grill them until tender for a smoky addition.

2. Brown Rice: Serve fluffy brown rice alongside as a hearty base that soaks up any leftover dressing.

3. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices make for a delightful snack or side that adds protein.

4. Avocado Toast: Spread ripe avocado on whole-grain toast topped with sesame seeds for a creamy contrast to the salad’s crunch.

5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits offers a sweet balance to the savory elements of your main dish.

6. Cucumber Rolls: Thinly slice cucumbers and wrap around hummus or cream cheese for a fresh, bite-sized appetizer that complements your meal.

7. Sweet Potato Wedges: Season sweet potato wedges with herbs and bake until crispy; they add sweetness and fiber to your plate.

8. Quinoa Bowl: For extra protein, serve your salad over a bed of quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and lemon zest for added flavor complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein). Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much dressing: Excess dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to balance flavors.
• Not prepping ingredients properly: Ensure all vegetables are chopped evenly for a consistent texture. This enhances both presentation and eating experience.
• Skipping the protein options: This salad is high-protein, so don’t forget to include sources like edamame and quinoa. They not only add nutrition but also bulk up the meal.
• Ignoring freshness: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor. Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best taste.
• Assembling too early: If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in the vegetables after thawing.

Reheating Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein):

What makes this a high-protein salad?

This salad features ingredients like quinoa and edamame which provide essential proteins, making it filling and nutritious.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies or proteins you enjoy, such as bell peppers or grilled chicken, while keeping it high protein.

How do I make this salad more flavorful?

Consider adding spices or additional herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor depth without compromising its healthy profile.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this salad?

Pair it with whole grain bread or a light soup to complement your meal while keeping it healthy.

Final Thoughts

This Salad with Asian Dressing (High Protein) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or seasonal produce. Give this recipe a try for an easy meal prep option that packs plenty of nutrition!