What makes a great Asian‑inspired salad?

A great Asian-inspired salad balances freshness, crunch, and bold flavors. It typically features crisp greens, a savory-sweet dressing with soy, sesame, and vinegar, and toppings like fried shallots or nuts. The magic lies in the contrast—tender greens with punchy dressing and crunchy garnishes. Simplicity, when combined with thoughtful flavor layering, makes the Asian Side Salad both refreshing and memorable.

Can the dressing ingredients be substituted?

Absolutely. While soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar create the signature base, you can swap in tamari for gluten-free needs or use lime juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy twist. If you're avoiding added sugar, a touch of maple syrup or honey works well too. The dressing is highly adaptable, so feel free to adjust it to your taste or dietary preferences without losing the salad’s identity.

Are there any suitable garnishes if crispy fried shallots aren’t available?

Yes—there are plenty of delicious alternatives. Chopped toasted cashews, sliced almonds, sesame seeds, or even crispy chickpeas all make excellent stand-ins. You could also use store-bought fried onions in a pinch. The goal is to add a savory crunch, so as long as the texture is there, you have freedom to get creative with toppings.

What can you serve alongside this salad?

The Asian Side Salad pairs well with a wide range of mains. It’s ideal alongside grilled chicken, seared tofu, teriyaki salmon, or even stir-fried noodles. For a fusion twist, try it with dishes like miso-baked vegetables or jasmine rice bowls. It’s also a bright contrast when served with heavier sides like potato salad or a fresh spring salad .

Asian Side Salad – A Crisp and Flavorful Favorite You’ll Want Daily

Description

Asian Side Salad offers quick, fresh flavor with sesame-ginger dressing and crunchy toppings in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- 3 tablespoons neutral oil (peanut, canola, or vegetable)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly minced ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Salad:
- 4 ounces mixed leafy salad greens
- 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots or chopped nuts (such as cashews or almonds)

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Instructions

In a jar or small container with a lid, combine all dressing ingredients. Shake well until the mixture is fully blended.
In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Top with crispy shallots or chopped nuts just before serving.