Asian salad dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to countless dishes. From leafy green salads to steamed vegetables, noodles, and even as a dipping sauce, this dressing is an essential kitchen staple for adding an umami-packed punch to your meals. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delectable sesame-ginger dressing and how to incorporate it into your cooking.
Why Make Your Own Asian Salad Dressing?
Homemade dressings are always superior to store-bought versions, and here’s why:
- Freshness: Homemade dressing uses fresh, vibrant ingredients that elevate flavor.
- No Preservatives: Avoid additives, stabilizers, or unnecessary sugars often found in packaged dressings.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, tanginess, or creaminess to suit your taste.
- Quick & Easy: With just five minutes and a few pantry staples, you’ll have a dressing that’s far better than anything store-bought.
How to Use Asian Salad Dressing
This sesame ginger dressing is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Leafy Greens: Especially Asian greens like mizuna, spinach, or arugula.
- Vegetables: Drizzle over sliced cucumbers, blanched asparagus, or steamed broccoli.
- Protein: Use as a topping for grilled chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, or salmon.
- Noodles: Toss with cold soba or rice noodles for a quick meal.
- Asian Coleslaw: Combine with shredded cabbage and carrots for a refreshing side dish.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with gyoza, wontons, potstickers, or fried tofu.
For a polished presentation, garnish your dish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
Asian Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
(Makes about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons tamari (adjust to taste; substitute with light soy sauce if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey (or substitute 2 tablespoons brown sugar alternative for a low-sugar option)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root, very finely grated
- 2 teaspoons mirin (Japanese rice wine, optional)
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all ingredients into a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Shake: Seal the lid tightly and shake the jar vigorously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Store: Transfer the dressing to the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 10 days in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ginger: Finely grate fresh ginger for the best flavor. Avoid powdered ginger, which lacks the same freshness and intensity.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the tamari or soy sauce, honey, and vinegar to achieve your preferred balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.
- Emulsify Properly: Shaking or whisking thoroughly ensures the oil and vinegar mix well and don’t separate.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: Use high-quality toasted sesame oil for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Optional Mirin: While not essential, mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth that’s worth including.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Asian Salad: Combine mixed greens, shredded carrots, edamame, sliced radishes, and crispy wonton strips. Drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Cold Noodle Salad: Toss cooked and chilled soba noodles with julienned cucumbers, carrots, green onions, and the dressing. Top with grilled shrimp or chicken.
- Asian Slaw: Mix shredded red and green cabbage with grated carrots and toss with the dressing. Let it marinate for 20 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Protein Marinade: Use the dressing as a quick marinade for chicken or salmon. Let it sit for 30 minutes before grilling or baking.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside potstickers, gyoza, or spring rolls for a delicious dipping option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dressing vegan? Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
2. What’s the best way to store this dressing? Store the dressing in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 10 days. Shake well before each use, as separation is natural.
3. Can I make this dressing nut-free? Absolutely. The recipe doesn’t include nuts, but ensure that your sesame oil and other ingredients haven’t been cross-contaminated if you’re serving someone with severe allergies.
4. Can I substitute rice vinegar? If rice vinegar isn’t available, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can work as substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly.
5. Is this dressing spicy? No, it’s not spicy. If you’d like to add heat, stir in a dash of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a small amount of grated fresh chili.
Nutrition Information
(Per 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 137 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 284mg
- Potassium: 17mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
Why This Recipe Works
This Asian salad dressing strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, thanks to its thoughtfully selected ingredients. The sesame oil and seeds add earthiness, while the fresh ginger and mirin provide depth and complexity. Whether used as a salad topper, marinade, or dip, this dressing enhances any dish with its vibrant, authentic flavors.
Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and incorporating it into your favorite dishes!