Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients? Meet the Asian Broccoli Salad with Edamame and Peanut Dressing. This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a star in its own right. Fresh broccoli, crunchy red cabbage, and protein-rich edamame come together in a vibrant mix that’s complemented by a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option or a refreshing dinner side, this salad has got you covered.
The Allure of Asian-Inspired Salads
Asian-inspired salads are known for their bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. They often feature a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, making them a feast for the senses. This salad is no exception. The combination of fresh vegetables, a hint of sweetness from the dates, and the rich, nutty dressing creates a satisfying and memorable dish.
Benefits of Broccoli in Your Diet
Nutritional Value
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. This cruciferous vegetable is also a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer.
Health Benefits
Incorporating broccoli into your diet can have numerous health benefits. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Broccoli is also high in antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage.
Edamame: A Powerhouse of Protein
Edamame, or young soybeans, are not just delicious but incredibly nutritious. They’re an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this salad a great option for vegetarians and vegans. Edamame is also rich in essential amino acids, fiber, and a range of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and calcium.
The Versatility of Red Cabbage
Red cabbage adds a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to this salad. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it’s packed with nutrients like Vitamin C and potassium. Red cabbage is also a good source of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are linked to heart health.
The Sweet Addition of Medjool Dates
Medjool dates add a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the salad. They’re rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. These dates also bring a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables.
The Role of Green Onions in Enhancing Flavor
Green onions, also known as scallions, add a subtle, oniony flavor without overpowering the dish. They bring a fresh, mild spice that complements the sweetness of the dates and the richness of the peanut dressing.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salad Ingredients
- Broccoli: The star of the show, offering a crunchy texture and a wealth of nutrients.
- Red Cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
- Edamame: Provides a boost of plant-based protein.
- Medjool Dates: Introduce a touch of natural sweetness.
- Green Onions: Enhance the salad’s overall flavor profile.
- Chopped Peanuts: Add a final layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
Peanut Dressing Ingredients
- Peanut Butter: The base of the dressing, bringing creaminess and rich flavor.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: Adds a salty, umami depth.
- Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy, acidic balance.
- Lime Juice: Adds freshness and a zesty kick.
- Thai Red Curry Paste or Sriracha: For those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Fresh Ginger: Brings warmth and spice to the dressing.
- Water: Used to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.
Why This Peanut Dressing is a Game Changer
This peanut dressing is the heart of the salad. It’s creamy, rich, and full of flavor. The combination of peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice creates a perfectly balanced dressing that’s both savory and tangy. The addition of fresh ginger and optional Thai red curry paste or sriracha elevates the flavor profile, making it a dressing you’ll want to use on everything.
Helpful Tools to Make This Asian Broccoli Salad Recipe
To make this salad, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:
- Blender or Food Processor: For blending the peanut dressing until smooth and creamy.
- Large Salad Bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
- Sharp Knife: To chop the broccoli, cabbage, and dates with ease.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for all your chopping needs.
How to Make Asian Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Edamame
Start by cooking the edamame according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the edamame and set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Making the Peanut Dressing
In a blender or food processor, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, Thai curry paste (if using), and fresh ginger. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Slowly add cold water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Assembling the Salad
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped broccoli, grated red cabbage, cooked edamame, chopped dates, and sliced green onions.
Drizzle the peanut dressing over the top and toss to combine all the ingredients.
If time allows, let the salad sit in the fridge for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
- Chill the salad: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors develop and meld together.
- Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a thinner dressing, add more water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Customize the spice level: If you’re not a fan of spice, omit the Thai curry paste or sriracha. For a bit of heat, add a little more to taste.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This salad is not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, sweet dates, and a rich peanut dressing creates a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re a salad lover or someone who usually skips the greens, this recipe is sure to win you over.
Serving Suggestions
This Asian Broccoli Salad can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tofu, or fish. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa.
FAQs: Asian Broccoli Salad
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just store the salad and dressing separately and combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
If you’re allergic to peanuts or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
Yes, this salad is gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Asian Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 crowns broccoli, chopped into small pieces
- 2 cups grated red cabbage
- 1 cup cooked edamame
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts
- 5 large medjool dates, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
Peanut Dressing
- ¼ cup all natural peanut butter use ⅓ cup for a creamier dressing
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp thai red curry paste or sriracha (optional)
- 1 heaping tbsp fresh ginger
- water to thin
Instructions
Edamame
- Start by cooking the edamame according to package instructions. Drain, and set aside to cool.
Dressing
- Prepare the dressing by adding peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, Thai curry paste, and ginger into a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy and slowly add in cold water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.
Salad Assembly
- In a large salad bowl, add broccoli, cabbage, edamame, dates, and green onions.
- Drizzle on the peanut dressing, and toss to combine.
- Allow to sit for 5-10 mins in the fridge if you have time, then top with the peanuts, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Asian Broccoli Salad
Incorporating this Asian Broccoli Salad with Edamame and Peanut Dressing into your meal rotation is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish. Packed with nutrients, this salad is not just good for you but also a treat for your taste buds. The next time you’re looking for a vibrant, satisfying salad, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed
This was my favourite salad recipe. I tried off your blog so far. It was so amazing and filling and tasty. I absolutely love the dressing and I’ll be making this again next week and I’ve shared it with a couple friends so thank you so much.
Thank you so very much for leaving this review! I’m so happy to hear you loved this salad enough to share with friends! 🙂
What an amazing salad! 10/10 ☺️😊😌
Thank you SO much!