The Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing brings the fresh and vibrant flavors of traditional Vietnamese spring rolls into a hearty and wholesome salad. With a medley of colorful veggies, aromatic herbs, and a perfectly balanced spicy ginger dressing, this dish is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Topped with roasted peanuts, cilantro, and sesame seeds, it’s both satisfying and nutritious — perfect for a summer meal or as a side dish at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Spicy Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon agave nectar
- 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spring Roll Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1-1/2 cups shredded green or purple cabbage
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 2 small carrots, julienned
- 1 medium sweet pepper, julienned
- 1/4 cup firmly-packed minced cilantro
- 1/4 cup firmly-packed minced mint
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Additional cilantro and sesame seeds for topping
Directions
1. Make the Spicy Ginger Dressing:
- In a food processor or blender, combine all the ingredients for the dressing: fresh ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave nectar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Prepare the Spring Roll Salad:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and ensure they stay firm.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the shredded cabbage, julienned cucumber, carrot, sweet pepper, cilantro, and mint.
- Toss everything together and coat with the chilled Spicy Ginger Dressing just before serving.
3. Garnish and Serve:
- Top the salad with a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts, extra cilantro, and a handful of sesame seeds for crunch and added flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu to the salad.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but you can also make it vegan by substituting agave nectar for honey and ensuring the soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
- Add Avocado: Sliced avocado can add a creamy texture that balances the spicy ginger dressing.
- Noodles Substitute: If you prefer, you can use soba noodles or even spiralized zucchini for a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Reheating: If you need to reheat the noodles, do so gently in a pan with a little water or oil to avoid overcooking them. The salad is best enjoyed cold.
10 FAQs About Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing
- Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Can I use a different type of noodle? Absolutely! You can use soba noodles, rice vermicelli, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.
- Is the dressing very spicy? The level of spiciness depends on the amount of red pepper flakes you use. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
- Can I add protein to this salad? Yes, grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu would be great additions to make this salad a more complete meal.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free (such as tamari) to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Can I use a different sweetener instead of agave nectar? You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, depending on your preference.
- Is this salad suitable for vegans? Yes, this salad can be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and checking that your soy sauce is vegan.
- What other veggies can I add? Feel free to add red cabbage, radishes, or even edamame for more texture and flavor.
- How long will the dressing last in the fridge? The dressing will keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
- Can I skip the peanuts? If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use peanuts, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether.
Conclusion
This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of crunchy veggies, aromatic herbs, and the tangy-spicy ginger dressing is a match made in heaven. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, side dish, or a main meal with added protein, this salad will certainly impress with its fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Enjoy it for a taste of spring all year round!