| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 10g | 1.5g | 13g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 5g | 2.5g |
When I first encountered water spinach at my local farmer’s market, I was instantly intrigued. These vibrant green leaves seemed to call out to me, whispering promises of a fresh and invigorating culinary experience. And that’s exactly what the original recipe, Water Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing, delivers.
A Wholesome and Nutritious Delight
One reason I absolutely adore this recipe is its health benefits. Water spinach, also known as kangkong, is a nutrient powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, it’s fantastic for boosting your immune system and maintaining healthy bones. The addition of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red bell peppers not only adds a delightful crunch and color but also ups the nutrient quotient. The dressing—an exquisite blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic—infuses the salad with a rich, savory depth that is simply irresistible.
Versatility at Its Best
This Water Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing can seamlessly blend into various meal settings. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, especially if you’re aiming for a lighter, healthier accompaniment. It also pairs wonderfully with dishes like Teriyaki Chicken or Grilled Salmon. For those who fancy trying something different, consider pairing the salad with some homemade sushi rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
Another reason I find myself reaching for this recipe often is its simplicity and speed. As a teacher, my days are packed to the brim. When I come home, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This salad can be assembled in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weekdays when you need to get dinner on the table quickly without compromising on nutrition or flavor.
Moreover, this recipe is a brilliant way to introduce young kids to green vegetables. The sesame dressing, with its sweet and tangy notes, can make the greens more palatable to picky eaters. As someone who works with children, I understand the challenge of making kids appreciate healthy food. This salad might soon become a family favorite, even for the little ones.
If you’re like me and enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, you’ll find that this salad shares similarities with Asian-inspired dishes like Thai Papaya Salad or Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad. The toasted sesame seeds add a layer of nuttiness that mingles beautifully with the other flavors, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your palate.
In conclusion, the Water Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing is a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that mirrors the rich culinary diversity I grew up with in Texas. Whether you’re looking to enhance your vegetable intake, try something new, or need a quick and nourishing meal option, this salad is your go-to.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb water spinach, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Method
Step One
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the water spinach for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched water spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, fresh cilantro, and green onions. Toss well to mix.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
Step Four
Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
Step Five
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your Water Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing!
