🥗 Quinoa Edamame Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
A fresh, vibrant, and nutritious salad packed with protein-rich quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- ½ cup quinoa
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- ½ avocado, diced
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seed oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
- In a small saucepan, bring ¾ cup water to a boil.
- Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, honey, fresh ginger, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, edamame, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
- Drizzle the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve as a light lunch or side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
✔ Add extra protein with tofu, chickpeas, or shrimp.
✔ Enjoy with a side of miso soup for a Japanese-inspired meal.
💡 Recipe Tips & Variations
⭐ Make it spicy – Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
⭐ Extra crunch – Toss in some chopped almonds or cashews.
⭐ Meal prep friendly – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days (add avocado fresh before serving).
⚖️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fats: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
💪 Health Benefits
✔ High in Plant-Based Protein – Edamame & quinoa provide complete proteins.
✔ Rich in Fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.
✔ Packed with Antioxidants – Bell peppers, cilantro, and avocado offer essential vitamins.
✔ Heart-Healthy Fats – Avocado and sesame oil are great for heart health.
❓ Q&A
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just store it in the fridge and add avocado before serving.
❓ Can I use a different grain?
Definitely! Try bulgur, couscous, or brown rice as a substitute.
❓ What’s a good vegan swap for honey?
Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
Would you like a higher-protein version or a different dressing alternative? Let me know! 😊🌿