Edamame Salad

When craving something fresh and vibrant, the Edamame Salad is always my go-to dish. I remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe at a summer picnic, where colorful salads stole the show. The combination of edamame, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing was a revelation. It was a hot day, and this salad felt like a breath of fresh air. Every bite burst with flavor, and I couldn’t help but ask for the recipe. This salad is not just about taste; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want a quick lunch, this Edamame Salad never fails to impress. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a delightful medley that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

What Goes Into Edamame Salad

Creating a delicious Edamame Salad starts with fresh, vibrant ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component plays a crucial role, enhancing the overall flavor, texture, and nutritional value of the dish. The key players here are edamame, which serves as a protein-packed base, and an array of colorful veggies that bring both crunch and freshness. With a delightful dressing to tie it all together, this salad is a celebration of summer flavors.

• 2 cups frozen edamame, thawed: These little green gems are packed with protein and fiber, making them a fantastic base for any salad.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their sweetness adds a pop of flavor and color that makes the salad visually appealing.
• 1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber brings a light crunch to each bite.
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: A touch of sharpness from the red onion enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 grated carrot (about 1/2 cup): This adds a hint of sweetness and a lovely orange color to the mix.
• 3 tbsp avocado oil: A smooth and rich oil that serves as the perfect base for the dressing.
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice: The acidity balances the flavors and brightens the entire dish.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or liquid aminos: Adds a savory depth to the dressing, enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 large clove garlic: Provides a punch of flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated: This adds an aromatic quality and warmth to the dressing.
• 2 tsp pure maple syrup: A hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds: A finishing touch that adds both texture and nutty flavor.
• Sea salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings them together.

Edamame Salad Instructions

Making the Edamame Salad is a breeze, and I love how it all comes together. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful dish that will impress your friends and family.

1. Begin by thawing your edamame. You can do this slowly by placing the bag in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, dump the frozen edamame into a large bowl filled with cold water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until they’ve thawed and are ready to go.
2. Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil, rice vinegar (or lime juice), soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together until well combined. The dressing should have a balanced taste of savory and sweet.
3. Now it’s time for the salad assembly! In a large bowl, combine the thawed edamame, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and grated carrot. Toss these ingredients gently to ensure they’re mixed well without bruising the vegetables.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, making sure everything gets coated evenly. Toss it all together gently, using a spatula or your hands, so that every bite is bursting with flavor.
5. Once tossed, taste your Edamame Salad. Adjust the seasoning by adding sea salt according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes!
6. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a great time to set the table or prepare any additional side dishes.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own.
8. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving again!
9. Enjoy your refreshing Edamame Salad and relish in the compliments you’ll receive for this vibrant dish!

How to Switch It Up

While the Edamame Salad is delicious as is, you can easily make it your own with these fun variations!

• Storage: Ensure to store your salad in an airtight container to keep it fresh for a few days. The flavors actually improve if it marinates overnight in the fridge!
• Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the individual ingredients like edamame before preparing. Just don’t freeze the salad after it’s mixed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, bringing a refreshing contrast to the meal.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy some heat, add chopped jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the dressing.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic twist!
• Different oils: Try using sesame oil instead of avocado oil for a different flavor profile.

Serving This Edamame Salad

When it comes to serving the Edamame Salad, the options are endless. This dish is a fantastic choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or even casual weeknight dinners.

• Perfect for picnics: Pack it into a large container for a picnic. It holds up well and is refreshing to eat outdoors.
• Great side dish: This salad complements grilled meats beautifully, making it an ideal side for summer barbecues.
• Healthy lunch option: Take it to work as a nutritious lunch. You can pair it with a piece of whole grain bread or a wrap.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week for quick lunches or dinners. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
• Seasonal pairings: Enjoy this salad with seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a unique twist during the summer months.
• Serving temperature: The Edamame Salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it flexible for any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Edamame Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together fresh ingredients with a zesty dressing. Its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch make it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it and enjoy the fresh flavors that come together so beautifully. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it during a quiet lunch, this salad is sure to please. Don’t miss out on this healthy and tasty treat!

Edamame Salad

This fresh and vibrant Edamame Salad is packed with protein and bursting with flavor. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, it's perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal. You’ll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Frozen edamame, thawed
• 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup Cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 grated Carrot (about 1/2 cup)
• 3 tbsp Avocado oil
• 2 tbsp Rice vinegar or lime juice
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce or liquid aminos
• 1 large clove Garlic
• 1 tbsp Fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 2 tsp Pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Sesame seeds
• Sea salt to taste

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Begin by thawing your edamame. You can do this slowly by placing the bag in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, dump the frozen edamame into a large bowl filled with cold water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until they've thawed and are ready to go.
2. Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil, rice vinegar (or lime juice), soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together until well combined. The dressing should have a balanced taste of savory and sweet.
3. Now it's time for the salad assembly! In a large bowl, combine the thawed edamame, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and grated carrot. Toss these ingredients gently to ensure they’re mixed well without bruising the vegetables.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, making sure everything gets coated evenly. Toss it all together gently, using a spatula or your hands, so that every bite is bursting with flavor.
5. Once tossed, taste your Edamame Salad. Adjust the seasoning by adding sea salt according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes!
6. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a great time to set the table or prepare any additional side dishes.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own.
8. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving again!
9. Enjoy your refreshing Edamame Salad and relish in the compliments you’ll receive for this vibrant dish!

Notes

When storing in the refrigerator, the cucumbers may become softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Previous PostButtery Herb Sautéed Mushrooms

Next Post Eggplant Lasagna

Meet Lily Parker