Spring rolls are a staple in many Asian cuisines, known for their light, refreshing ingredients and flavorful dipping sauces. This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing brings all those beloved elements into a convenient and vibrant salad form. Perfect for a summer lunch or a healthy dinner, this salad is both nutritious and delicious, combining fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a spicy ginger dressing that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Ingredients:
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 vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons of either canola oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spring Roll Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles, cooked and cooled
- 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
- Extra cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spicy Ginger Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the minced ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, agave nectar, rice vinegar, lime juice, and canola or vegetable oil. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, adjusting to your preferred taste. Whisk everything until well combined and set aside.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Cook the rice noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking together. Drain well.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned cucumber, julienned carrots, and julienned sweet pepper. Add the cooled rice noodles, minced cilantro, and minced mint. Carefully combine all the ingredients by gently tossing them together.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared Spicy Ginger Dressing over the salad. Lightly mix everything together to make sure the dressing evenly covers all the ingredients.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top of the salad. Garnish with additional cilantro and sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors. If you prefer, you can refrigerate the salad for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion:
This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of crunchy vegetables, soft rice noodles, and a tangy, spicy dressing makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the wholesome goodness of this unique and delicious dish!