Edamame Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and nutritious meal that bursts with flavor, this Edamame Salad Recipe is just what you need! It comes together in just 15 minutes and requires no cooking at all. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, this salad is not only colorful but also packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats. I love how the combination of crunchy veggies and a zingy dressing makes every bite delightful!

This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need something fresh to serve to friends, this Edamame Salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Nutritious powerhouse: Packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats from edamame and lentils, it’s as good for you as it is delicious!
• Customizable: With simple ingredients, you can tweak flavors to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish at dinner, it brings vibrant colors to your table.
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Edamame Salad Recipe. You probably already have some of these staples in your pantry!

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)

For the Salad

• 1 medium-large English cucumber (diced, about 2 cups)
• 12 ounces frozen shelled edamame (thawed according to packet instructions and dried)
• 1 large red bell pepper (diced, about 2 cups)
• 1 cup cooked black lentils (Puy, French, or green lentils; use canned or cook one-half cup until al dente)
• 4 green onions (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 4 teaspoons sesame seeds
• 4 tablespoons hemp seeds (optional)
• Juice of 1 medium lime
• Salt to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this Edamame Salad Recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have or what sounds good!

• Add more greens: Toss in some baby spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change up the protein: Swap black lentils for chickpeas or quinoa if you prefer.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Make it heartier: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a filling main dish.

How to Make Edamame Salad Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by whisking together all the dressing ingredients: rice vinegar, tamari, sriracha, ground ginger, garlic powder, olive oil, toasted sesame oil, and maple syrup. Mixing them well will create a flavorful base that ties everything together. Using a Pyrex measuring cup makes pouring easier later!

Step 2: Assemble Your Salad

Now it’s time to bring everything together! If you’re going for mason jar salads, divide the dressing among four jars. Layer each jar with cucumber, edamame, bell pepper, lentils, green onion, cilantro, and sesame seeds. This method is so fun and perfect for meal prep! If you’re making a big bowl salad instead, toss all those lovely ingredients into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

Once everything is assembled in your chosen container—either jars or a bowl—give it a good shake if using jars or gently mix in the bowl. Add fresh lime juice and salt to taste right before serving; this brightens up all those wonderful flavors. Enjoy your delicious Edamame Salad fresh!

Pro Tips for Making Edamame Salad Recipe

Creating the perfect edamame salad is all about the little details that enhance flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce not only tastes better but also adds vibrant colors and textures to your salad, making it more appealing and nutritious.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less sriracha in the dressing and add more gradually. This way, you can customize the flavor to your liking without overwhelming your palate.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It makes a refreshing dish, especially on warm days!
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add other toppings like sliced avocado or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added texture and flavor complexity.
• Make ahead for meal prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Edamame Salad Recipe

Presentation can elevate your dish from simple to stunning! Here are some creative ways to serve your edamame salad that will impress friends and family alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts or cashews: These nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the salad’s texture.
• Extra cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness.
• Lime wedges: Placing lime wedges on the side gives guests an option to add more citrusy zing as they like!

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Bowl: A fluffy quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables makes a hearty side that pairs well with the lightness of the edamame salad.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with seasonal veggies provide a smoky flavor contrast that enhances your meal.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls served with peanut sauce offer a delightful crunch and additional protein while keeping things light.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the savory tones of the edamame salad, creating a comforting pairing that’s sure to please.

Enjoy making this Edamame Salad Recipe – it’s quick, nutritious, and oh-so-delicious! Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or an elaborate potluck gathering. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Edamame Salad is the perfect dish for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re preparing for a busy workweek or a picnic, this salad is versatile and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.

Freezing

• While this salad is best fresh, you can freeze components like edamame and lentils separately.
• Do not freeze the salad with dressing or fresh vegetables to preserve texture and flavor.
• If freezing lentils, allow them to cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored cooked lentils separately, you can reheat them in a microwave or on the stove.
• For best results, add a splash of water when reheating to keep them moist.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad as it’s intended to be served cold.

FAQs

Do you have questions about making this delightful Edamame Salad Recipe? Here are some common inquiries that can help!

Can I use frozen edamame for this Edamame Salad Recipe?

Yes! Frozen shelled edamame works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw and dry them according to package instructions before adding them to your salad.

How long does this Edamame Salad Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3-4 days. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!

Can I customize the ingredients in this Edamame Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap out veggies based on your preferences. Ingredients like carrots, radishes, or snap peas can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Edamame Salad is ideal for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and remains flavorful throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this vibrant Edamame Salad! It’s not only packed with nutrients but also bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your meals. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet lunch at home or sharing it with friends at a gathering, I’m sure you’ll love how simple yet delicious it is. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!