Craving a salad that's both light and satisfying, yet surprisingly flavorful? This Crispy Salad with Sesame Sauce recipe is the perfect answer! Forget limp lettuce and boring dressings – we're talking about a vibrant mix of crisp vegetables, tossed in a homemade sesame sauce that's both nutty and subtly sweet. The secret lies in the perfectly balanced combination of textures and tastes, from the satisfying crunch of the vegetables to the rich, creamy sauce. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch.
This simple yet elegant salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to more formal gatherings. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe incredibly straightforward. Ready to learn how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Pestle
- Bowl
- Knife
Ingredients
- White cabbage: 150g
- Purple cabbage: 130g
- Lettuce: 200g
- Noodles: 20g
- A melon: 180g
- Eggplant: 200g
- Cucumber
- Sugar: 2 spoons
- Vinegar (rice vinegar): 2 spoons
- Soy sauce: 1 spoon
- Sesame oil or olive oil: 1 teaspoon
- Mayonnaise: 4 spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and cut the cucumber into thick slices. Don't cut it too thin to ensure crispiness.
- Cut the eggplant in half (or into smaller pieces if preferred).
- Cut the lettuce into 4-inch pieces.
- Cut the purple and white cabbage into thin strips.
- Wash the cut vegetables thoroughly and drain.
- Combine all the prepared vegetables in a large bowl.
Step 2. Fry the Noodles and Make the Sauce
- Fry the noodles in a pan over low heat until slightly golden brown.
- Mix sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil/olive oil, and mayonnaise in a bowl until smooth.
Step 3. Combine Salad and Sauce
- Lightly press half of the fried noodles into a bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and mix gently until evenly coated.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Arrange the salad on a plate, layering lettuce at the bottom, followed by other vegetables and finally, the remaining fried noodles.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Store lettuce in a cool place to maintain freshness.
- This salad pairs well with fried chicken, salmon, banh mi, shaking beef, or other fried dishes with fish sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make the fried noodle sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes preparation even faster.
2. What can I substitute for the noodles in the sauce?
If you don't have the specific noodles called for, you can experiment with other thin noodles like angel hair pasta or even finely chopped dried ramen. The key is to have a noodle that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce well.
This Crispy Salad with Fried Noodle Sauce is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a new favorite. The unique sauce adds a savory depth that elevates the simple salad ingredients to something truly special. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe for a light yet satisfying meal any time!