Edamame Salad – Sesame Dressing Recipe

Fresh, bright, and full of crunch, Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing is truly everything you want in a healthy, satisfying salad. Packed with protein-rich edamame, creamy avocado, and a punchy sesame-soy dressing, this colorful dish is as delicious as it is nourishing—ready to become your new favorite lunch or light dinner!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing calls for just a few star ingredients, each one playing an essential role in creating a blend of textures and harmonious flavors. Here’s how each element works together to make this salad positively crave-worthy.

• Edamame Beans (1 ½ cups, shelled): These vibrant green soybeans bring satisfying bite, protein, and a nutty sweetness—frozen shelled edamame works perfectly here.
• Green Cabbage (1 cup, finely diced): For a crunchy, refreshing base that soaks up the dressing beautifully; using fresh cabbage ensures the perfect texture.
• Persian Cucumber (1 medium): Its crispness and subtle sweetness balance the savory notes while adding extra hydration.
• Avocado (½ large, ripe): For those moments of creamy, dreamy richness—make sure it’s just soft enough to dice cleanly.
• Green Onions (2): The mild, peppery zing lifts everything with a pop of color and flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish): Sprinkle on top for irresistible nutty crunch and a pretty finish.
• Sesame Oil (1 ½ tbsp): This aromatic oil anchors the dressing with its signature toasty depth—don’t skip or skimp!
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Adds a mellow, fruity note to round out the sharpness of the sesame oil.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari (1 ½ tbsp): For that lip-smacking umami punch; low-sodium keeps it balanced.
• Rice Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp): Offers a gentle tang that perks up every vegetable in the bowl.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (2 tsp): Brings just the right amount of sweetness to tame salty, tangy flavors.
• Fresh Ginger (small cube, minced): A little zingy kick of warmth—always use fresh for the brightest taste.

Variations

The beauty of Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing is how incredibly adaptable it is. Don’t be afraid to play around—switch up veggies, adjust seasonings, or tweak it to meet your favorite flavors and dietary needs.

• Make It Vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave in the dressing for a completely plant-based dish.
• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in shredded carrots, thinly sliced radishes, or even red bell pepper strips for more crunch and color.
• Boost the Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, tofu cubes, or top with a handful of roasted peanuts for extra staying power.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a touch of sriracha or sprinkle chili flakes into the dressing for those who like it hot!

How to Make Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing

Step 1: Prep the Edamame

If you’re starting with frozen edamame, simply place them in a colander and run under warm water for a minute or two—they’ll thaw out quickly and be ready for the salad. Let any excess water drain away so nothing gets soggy.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

Finely dice the green cabbage for that signature crunch, slice the Persian cucumber into tiny cubes, thinly slice your green onions, and dice the avocado. Each chop should be small enough to easily mingle in every forkful!

Step 3: Whisk the Sesame Dressing

Grab a mason jar or bowl and add the sesame oil, olive oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and minced ginger. Whisk (or shake!) it all together until you see it go silky and smooth—it’s now ready to dazzle your salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad or mixing bowl, add all of your chopped veggies—edamame, cabbage, cucumber, avocado, and green onions. Pour over that glorious sesame dressing and toss gently; you want everything coated but the avocado still intact and gorgeous.

Step 5: Marinate & Finish

Let the assembled salad chill in the fridge for 5-10 minutes. This brief pause allows the flavors to meld (it’s worth the wait!). Before serving, give everything one more gentle toss and top with a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

How to Serve Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing

Garnishes

To elevate every serving of Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing, don’t skip the toasted sesame seeds on top—they add a nutty aroma and a delightful little crunch. For even more color and excitement, scatter some thinly sliced red chili or a flurry of chopped cilantro or chives right before bringing it to the table.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with so many meals—it’s fantastic next to grilled teriyaki chicken, seared salmon, or even a bowl of garlic fried rice. For a meatless meal, try it with miso soup or veggie spring rolls for that restaurant-worthy combo!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation! Serve Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing in lettuce cups for a refreshing appetizer, layer it in mason jars for a meal-prep lunch (just keep the dressing separate until ready), or present it as a vibrant centerpiece on a large platter for a party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may soften a bit, but the cabbage and edamame stay crisp, making the salad just as tasty the next day—if not even better after marinating!

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing. The fresh veggies and avocado don’t hold up well after thawing—they’ll lose their crunch and become watery. For best results, always enjoy this salad fresh or freshly refrigerated.

Reheating

No reheating needed—this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you’re serving leftovers, just give everything a gentle toss before plating, and add a fresh sprinkle of sesame seeds to refresh the crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s honestly fun to eat, Edamame Salad with Sesame Dressing will quickly become a staple in your home. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat for quick lunches, sunny picnics, or any time you want something fresh and full of flavor!

Print