salad recipe chinese
The Best salad recipe chinese
I started making this salad a few years ago when I was looking for something lighter to serve at family gatherings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a casual Sunday dinner or a more formal meal when we’re hosting. The kids especially love the crunch of the veggies and the cool, refreshing taste of the dressing. It’s also super versatile—you can make a big batch ahead and store it in the fridge for a few days, so it’s great for meal prep too. Plus, the health benefits are hard to ignore: it’s loaded with leafy greens, lean protein, and healthy fats that keep me full and energized. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a treat without the guilt.
Chinese Sesame Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful Chinese-inspired salad featuring crisp noodles tossed with fresh vegetables, sesame dressing, and a touch of chili for a zesty kick. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) rice noodles
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp water
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, typically boiling for 3-5 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and spread on a clean kitchen towel to dry. -
2
While noodles are drying, prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey/sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and water in a bowl. -
3
In a large serving bowl, combine shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, chopped bell peppers, shredded cabbage, and chopped green onions. -
4
Once noodles are completely dry, add them to the vegetable mixture. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables, tossing gently to coat evenly. -
5
Add chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes (if using) and mix well. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Cooking pot
- Salad spinner or colander
- Large serving bowl
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra crunch, add some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds to the salad.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Use a variety of vegetables for added color and nutrients.
Watch Video Of How Chinese Sesame Noodle Salad Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Sesame Noodle Salad
What is the traditional Chinese salad recipe, and what are its main ingredients?
A traditional Chinese salad, often called “Chop Suey Salad” or “Chinese Vegetable Salad,” typically includes ingredients like shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, cucumbers, and sometimes tofu or chicken. The dressing usually consists of a mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar or honey.
How can I make a simple and flavorful Chinese salad dressing?
To make a simple dressing, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, ½ teaspoon of sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, and a small piece of grated ginger. Stir well and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Chinese salad recipe?
Yes, you can! While traditional recipes use cabbage, many people replace it with lettuce, bok choy, or even mixed greens. Carrots can be replaced with bell peppers or snap peas, and bean sprouts can be omitted if preferred. Tofu or chicken can also be swapped for other proteins like shrimp or tempeh.
What are some common variations of Chinese salad recipes?
One popular variation is the “Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad,” which includes shredded chicken, bell peppers, pineapple, and a tangy sweet-and-sour sauce. Another variation is the “Sesame Noodle Salad,” which combines noodles with vegetables, sesame dressing, and sometimes peanuts. Some versions also include mushrooms or water chestnuts.
How should I prepare the vegetables for the Chinese salad to ensure they stay fresh and crisp?
To keep vegetables crisp, wash them thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. For leafy greens like cabbage, cut into thin, even strips. For carrots, peel and julienne or thinly slice them. For bean sprouts, rinse and drain well to remove excess water. Store the salad ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge until ready to mix, ensuring they stay fresh and crunchy.
