Description
This vibrant Spring Roll Salad combines tender rice noodles with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a spicy ginger dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect for a refreshing lunch or side dish, this recipe offers bright flavors and a satisfying crunch.
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 sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Spring Roll Salad
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 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
- Additional cilantro and sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Spicy Ginger Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave nectar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, and red pepper flakes. Blend until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then refrigerate until ready to use.
- Cook Rice Noodles: Prepare rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse the noodles thoroughly with cold water to cool them completely, then drain well. Transfer the noodles to a large serving bowl.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add shredded cabbage, julienned cucumber, carrots, sweet pepper, minced cilantro, and mint into the bowl with the cooled noodles. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Toss with Dressing and Serve: When ready to serve, drizzle the chilled spicy ginger dressing over the salad. Toss well to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, extra cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your fresh spring roll salad!
Notes
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time; keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes in the dressing to control spiciness.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken.
- The salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian