Garden Salad with an Asian Touch
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
Recipe Category: Vegetable | Keywords: Asian, No Cook, < 15 Mins
Description
This vibrant and refreshing garden salad combines the best of fresh, crunchy vegetables straight from the garden, with a unique twist inspired by Asian flavors. Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and leafy lettuce come together in perfect harmony. Tossed in a flavorful, zesty dressing made with fresh ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar, this salad is light yet satisfying. Whether served as a side dish or a light lunch, it’s the perfect addition to any meal, especially when you’re craving something quick and full of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 1, medium, thinly sliced |
| Tomatoes | 1, large, diced |
| Scallion (Green Onion) | 1, thinly sliced |
| Garlic Clove | 1, minced |
| Fresh Ginger | 1/2 teaspoon, grated |
| Light Soy Sauce | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Vinegar (Rice or White) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Ground Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Leaf Lettuce | 2 cups, torn into bite-size pieces |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Sesame Seeds | 1-2 teaspoons, toasted |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 58.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 56.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, light soy sauce, vinegar, and ground pepper until the ingredients are well combined. This flavorful dressing will infuse the salad with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes.
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Assemble the Salad Base: Arrange the torn leaf lettuce and chopped basil leaves onto 4 separate salad plates. The basil adds an aromatic burst of freshness that complements the crisp lettuce beautifully.
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Toss the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced scallions. Toss the vegetables gently to combine. The crunchy cucumber and juicy tomatoes will add texture and flavor to every bite.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle about 2 teaspoons of the prepared dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture, then toss it together gently to coat the vegetables in the flavorful dressing.
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Top the Greens: Spoon the dressed cucumber and tomato mixture on top of the lettuce and basil greens, ensuring even coverage for a vibrant salad presentation.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a pinch of toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad for an added crunch and a subtle nutty flavor. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Pro Tip
To elevate this salad even further, consider adding a handful of cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein-packed version that turns this garden salad into a satisfying main course. The crispness of the fresh vegetables combined with the savory Asian-inspired dressing pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins.
This delightful Garden Salad with an Asian Touch brings a burst of fresh flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days when you crave a light and healthy meal. The combination of garden vegetables with the umami-rich dressing will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Enjoy this crisp, colorful salad that’s sure to become a new favorite!
