This refreshing cucumber edamame salad is perfect for a light meal or side dish! Crispy cucumbers and nutritious edamame come together with a zesty ginger dressing that’s simply delightful.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s so vibrant! I love munching on this salad during hot days—it’s like a cool breeze in a bowl! 🥒💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Edamame: This protein-rich ingredient gives the salad a hearty feel. If edamame is hard to find, chickpeas or black beans are great alternatives.
Cucumber: I like using English cucumbers because they are seedless and have a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work, but peel them for a smoother texture.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but frozen corn is a fantastic substitute! Just make sure to thaw it before using.
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. If you need a substitute for creaminess, try using a few tablespoons of hummus or tahini for a different twist.
Ginger: Fresh ginger brings a wonderful kick! If you don’t have fresh, you can use ground ginger, but start with less—about a quarter teaspoon.
How Do I Make the Perfect Ginger Dressing?
The dressing is key to brightening up this salad! Here’s how to make it just right:
- Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for soy sauce and vinegar for balanced flavor.
- Grate Ginger: Fresh ginger has a more vibrant flavor than powdered. Use a microplane or fine grater for the best results.
- Mix Thoroughly: Whisk all dressing ingredients together until combined. This helps the flavors meld nicely.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can add a bit more honey or maple syrup to achieve your desired sweetness!
Pour this dressing over your salad and toss it well. Let it sit for a bit before serving to let flavors develop. Enjoy your refreshing salad! 🌱🥗
Easy Cucumber Edamame Salad With Ginger Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked edamame (shelled)
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Ginger Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll be chopping and mixing in no time, and it’s best when chilled for about 15-20 minutes afterwards to let all the zesty flavors meld together. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fresh side at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by dicing the cucumber and ripe avocado. Then, slice the green onions and make sure your cooked edamame and corn kernels are ready to go!
2. Mix the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the edamame, diced cucumber, corn, diced avocado, green onions, and both black and white sesame seeds. Gently mix everything to combine, making sure not to mash the avocado.
3. Make the Ginger Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
4. Combine & Toss:
Pour the ginger dressing over your salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is key for that flavorful punch!
5. Garnish & Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a lovely garnish. You can also add a few extra sesame seeds for a little crunch. Serve immediately, or for an even better flavor, chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Edamame for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can use frozen edamame; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the salad. For quick thawing, you can run them under warm water or microwave for a minute!
How Do I Store Leftovers of This Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to eat it fresh, as the avocado can brown quickly and affect the overall appearance.
Can I Modify the Dressing for a Different Flavor?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste. For instance, you can add lime juice for a tangy twist, or substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Salad?
This salad is very versatile! You can add chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even diced tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture. Get creative with your favorite crunchy veggies!
